Arise, Little Girl

Lent starts February 14, and so does the RESCUED Blessed is She Lent devotional. This year, you’ll be receiving an excerpt from the Lent devotional every day in your inbox (in lieu of our regular daily devo). We want to pray with one heart and one mind as the BIS sisterhood. If you prefer to have the book, purchase the 2024 Blessed is She Lent devotional RESCUED right here. Right upon purchase, you’ll receive a link to come into the free Blessed is She app to walk through the Lenten season with us in daily live prayer, small groups, and more. Together let’s look to the Lamb of God who came to rescue each one of us.

 

He took the child by the hand and said to her, "Talitha koum," which means, "Little girl, I say to you, arise!" // Mark 5:41

The room was quiet. All I could hear were the ticking of the clock and the accusing voices in my head. I wondered to myself: How did I get so far from God? My heart ached, and I wanted to cry out to God, but the Liar whispered in my head: Why bother? You know if you try to make a change, you’ll just go back to your old ways. You’re pathetic.

Unexpectedly, my mind drifted to an overheard conversation about the mercy of God. In my mind’s eye I pictured Jesus on the Cross with the Blessed Mother beside Him. With pleading tears in her eyes, she repeated to me: He died for you . . . He died for you. The words echoed in my mind and a sudden wave of awareness swept over me that Jesus died on the Cross because of His deep, unfathomable love for me.

Crumpled on the floor, it was more than I could bear. I sobbed uncontrollably. All the bitterness, hatred, and cynicism were being washed away as I cried out to God. My soul, which had felt dead for so long, was being brought back to life. Jesus was whispering to me: Talitha koum . . .  Little girl, I say to you, arise! (Mark 5:41)

That was a profound moment, but it’s not the only time Jesus has spoken this to my heart. Countless times life and circumstances have broken my spirit and I felt like I couldn’t go on. Sometimes it was during extreme grief, such as the death of a loved one. Sometimes it was during times of great stress and burnout when I just couldn’t give anymore. When my spirit was crushed on the floor, Jesus once again whispered in my heart: Little girl, arise. 

Is there something in your life bringing you great stress, worry, or grief? Close your eyes and picture Jesus walking to you with an outstretched arm. Notice the tender love and compassion in His eyes. Hear Him speak the words, “Talitha koum” (Mark 5:41). Take hold of His hand and let Him breathe new life in you.