Mark 6:56 - Contemporary English Version
‘In every village or farm or marketplace where Jesus went, the people brought their sick to him.’
A marketplace full of people
Picture that marketplace for a moment. Among the stalls lie sick people whom others have brought there. Their families or neighbours have heard that Jesus is coming and want to be near him. They ask if the sick can touch even the edge of his clothing. Mark tells us that those who touched him were healed.
In Jesus’ time, illness could change your whole life. If you could not work, you often had to depend on others. That is why the actions of the people in the marketplace move me. They see their neighbours’ need and do not leave them behind.
When you need support
Perhaps you are carrying something no one can see. You are waiting for test results, missing someone, or worn out by worries at home. Then a small act can mean a great deal: a neighbour bringing groceries, a friend going with you to an appointment, or someone at church taking the time to listen. Sometimes you need another person beside you before you can take the next step.
Mark describes healings that took place while Jesus was on earth. That does not mean every prayer today brings immediate healing. But this story does show people coming to him with their pain and longing. You, too, can tell Jesus what is on your mind. You do not need to know how to pray first. If words are hard to find, you can ask someone to pray with you.
Final thought
In the marketplace, the sick did not have to hide their vulnerability. You do not have to pretend to be stronger than you are, either. What would you want to tell Jesus? And whom could you ask to stand beside you today?
A prayer
“Jesus, you see what is on my mind. Help me bring my worries to you. Give me the courage to ask for help and people who will stand beside me. Help me get to know you. Amen.”