As today's gospel lesson begins, Jesus is crossing back to the "other side" of the Sea of Galilee that is, he is returning to the western shore where he began his journey. Despite all this crossing back and forth, the crowds are consistent. Mark carefully paints a picture of a popular Jesus, swarmed by crowds on the very edge of the sea (see 3:7-12, 4:1-2 and 5:1-20).

Out of that crowd there steps a solitary, distinguished individual. Jairus is introduced both by name and by stature. He is not just "one of the crowd" but is a respected, powerful synagogue leader. As one who is used to respect and results, Jairus steps directly up to Jesus. Yet, he then humbles himself before the healer. Still his request is clear and direct.

Of course, Jairus' request is not for himself, but for his "littl…