That they might touch only…

That they might touch only his tassel on his cloak.

It has often been said that the clothes we wear reveal something about who we are. Are we wealthy or not? Flashy or modest? In one sense, this was true during Jesus’ time as well, only in a more direct way. That is because all the Jews were expected to dress in a certain distinctive way.

Hers is a little background during the times of Moses, God instructed the people to tie tassels to the corners of their robes. “When you use these tassels,” he said, “the sight of the cord will remind you of all the commandments of the Lord and you will do them”. Over time, these tassels acted both a reminder and as a marker that set the people apart from the Gentiles around them. They became a sign of their Jewish heritage and their commitment to the Lord. It is similar to the way Christians today wear a cross around their necks.

So it was not superstitious act when the Jews in Gennesaret laid the sick in the marketplace in the hopes that “they might touch only the tassel” of Jesus’ cloak. It was an act of faith. It was their way of saying “Jesus, I believe that you have a special relationship with God. Please set me free!”.

Can you imagine the obstacles these people must have faced. The marketplace was a noisy crowded place, and people did not usually notice those among them who were suffering. So these sick had no one to help them. They had just one chance at healing – to reach out as Jesus passed by. So they took it. And they were healed. Not only that, but they were reassured of God’s love, and they became more convinced that Jesus was the Messiah.

Even though you can not touch Jesus physically today, he wants to give you the same assurance. He wants you to experience the same healing, love, and power that these people experienced. Reach out to him in prayer. Proclaim your belief in him, and watch as he warms your heart.

-word among us