https://odb.org/2023/11/12/cling-to-me
I have probably read the story of the woman with the issue of blood many times but didn’t see the challenge she faced and the significance in her determination to touch the cloak of Jesus. It was, of course, a miracle and significant because just touching Jesus’s robe healed her. The incident has the vibes of Isaiah 6:1, where Isaiah declared that the train of His robe filled the Temple.
In other words, the edge of a man’s robe or that of the LORD in Isaiah 6:1 speaks of His power, authority, and covering (protection). Seen in that context, the woman in Matthew 9:18-22 actually knew the significance of touching the edge of Jesus’s robe. It’s not just a question that even His robe can heal but rather the edge of His robe signifies His authority as the Son of God, and therefore, it can surely heal.
But it was no ordinary woman facing an ordinary illness. It is a long, outstanding illness that must have weakened her considerably. Coupled with the social stigma associated with it as women having their periods, they were considered unclean, and this woman have been having this condition for 12 years! It is somewhat similar to the social shame associated with HIV in our current context.
We could be facing an illness that we are too shy to voice out. But if we have the determination and faith of the woman in Matthew 9, the Lord in His grace and mercy will heal us and make us whole again. Trust in Him and act on His power and authority. It will come to pass.
Ronnie's Thoughts 