There are four stories going on in this text: 1) the story of a humble leader, 2) the story of a sick woman, 3) the story of a dead little girl, and 4) your story and mine.

We want to be sure to get at the truth of the Bible stories, but we also need to look at the personal connection, the application of the text to our lives. That's your story and mine. In other words, preaching Bible stories must not only be true to the text; preaching also must make a difference. This text about Jesus' healing power is true; it also makes a difference in our lives.

The presenting problem, the "itch" for which Jesus provides the "scratch" is a request from a synagogue leader named Jairus. This point of departure is the plea of this community leader for Jesus to come to his home and heal his dying daugh…