The Dream Is Not Dead

There is a moving story in Mark chapter 5 about a synagogue leader whose daughter was very sick – at the point of death. He found Jesus, fell at his feet, and pleaded earnestly with him: “My little daughter is dying. Please come and put your hands on her so that she will be healed and live.”

Before Jesus could get to the man’s daughter, some men came from the home of the synagogue leader: “Your daughter is dead," they said. "Why bother the teacher any more?"

Ignoring them, Jesus told the girl’s father, “Don't be afraid; just believe.” Arriving at the home, Jesus saw all the family and friends wailing with grief. He said, “Why all this commotion and wailing? The child is not dead but asleep.” Then, Jesus took the child's father and mother and some others who were there following Jesus, and went in where the child was. He took her by the hand and said to her, “Little girl, I say to you, get up!” To everyone’s amazement, the girl stood up and walked around. Then Jesus told them to give her something to eat. (Excerpted from Mark 5)

Most of us, thankfully, have not faced what the synagogue leader faced that day. Having three daughters of my own, I can imagine the anguish he felt, but I can only imagine it because my daughters are all healthy and doing well, and they have enjoyed good health and strength all their lives.

But, as I read this passage, I thought that each of us face the death of dreams in our lives. People may have even told you, “Forget it! Your dream is dead.” But I tell you: let Jesus wake up your dreams! Others may laugh at you for believing that Jesus could do such a thing. They may think you are silly or perhaps vain for believing that Jesus even cares about your dreams. But I want to tell you that he does care! And he’s saying to you, “don’t be afraid; just believe.” Let him take you by the hand, and lead you to where your dreams lie shattered. Hear him tell you, “Your dream is not dead, but asleep.” Then let him whisper: “Little dream, get up!”

I am passing through a valley of “dream death” right now. As I read this passage, the Holy Spirit spoke to me: “Why all this commotion? The dream is not dead, but asleep.” I thank God that I serve a Savior who specializes in resurrecting dreams!

Believe with me! Believe for me! Let us join our faith together. Jesus awakes our dreams! Now, let’s go and give our dreams something to eat… Hmmm…