Fire the Band! :: Deeper Devotion

By Glenn Ansley

Matthew 9:24

He said, “Leave; for the girl is not dead, but is asleep.” And they began laughing at Him.

Flute players, loud crowds, and disorder overwhelmed the small village. This was the makings of a funeral in first century Palestine. The street band was hired, the mourners were growing, and the body of the little girl lay cold in her father’s house.

In walks Jesus. The synagogue official had found him preaching earlier that morning and cried out to Him, “My daughter has just died; but come and lay Your hand on her, and she will live.” So Jesus arrived, and after looking around at the flute players and the noisy crowd He said, “Leave; for the girl is not dead, but is asleep.” And they began laughing at Him.

There is a band playing loudly around you today. Just beyond your sight is a massive parade of Satan’s allies singing songs of defeat. They’re proclaiming your death, playing louder until you can hear nothing but their despairing songs. They would have you believe all is lost.

But they throw a funeral for one who’s no longer dead.

Enter Jesus. He has answered your heavenly Father’s call. With His death and resurrection, life now runs through your veins. The band knows this, but they play on. Why do you continue to listen to them? Why do you host their mockery? Are you not convinced that nothing can separate you from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord? Are you not convinced of the Lord’s saving grace?

I encourage you to stop dwelling on the band. Rather, focus your eyes on Christ, and witness His authority as He commands them, “Depart! For my child is no longer dead.”

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