Devotion for Saturday, February 28, 2026

“And He asked his father, “How long has this been happening to him?” And he said, “From childhood.  It has often thrown him both into the fire and into the water to destroy him. But if You can do anything, take pity on us and help us!” (Mark 9:21-22)

Even a father who is desperate makes a step of faith and believes that perhaps, if he asks Jesus, his son may be cured.  “Take pity Lord and heal my son.”  But notice that He says, “If you can.”  So many of us act this way toward the Lord as if the Lord is not the Lord of all.  “If you can?”  Do you come to the Lord hoping but not trusting that He is able to do what He has promised?  Do you have faith in the Lord?

Lord, in this world filled with turmoil, I often doubt.  I wonder what is real, what is possible, and what are the limitations.  You are God.  Why do I doubt Your ability?  Do I believe those who hate You because You allowed something to happen they did not like?  Do I actually believe You are limited?  Help me to move through these things to know that You are God and everything is in Your hands.

Jesus, everything You do has great purpose.  You, the Word made flesh, dwelt among us, limited as we are limited in this physical body, yet You did great things and showed the power and authority of the Father.  Help me through my lack of faith and guide me to believe in faith that all things truly are in Your hands and that You will lead all who believe into eternal life, dwelling with You forever.  Amen.