As Good as Not Dead

18 While he was saying these things to them, behold, a ruler came in and knelt before him, saying, “My daughter has just died, but come and lay your hand on her, and she will live.” 19 And Jesus rose and followed him, with his disciples. 20 And behold, a woman who had suffered from a discharge of blood for twelve years came up behind him and touched the fringe of his garment, 21 for she said to herself, “If I only touch his garment, I will be made well.” 22 Jesus turned, and seeing her he said, “Take heart, daughter; your faith has made you well.” And instantly the woman was made well. 23 And when Jesus came to the ruler's house and saw the flute players and the crowd making a commotion, 24 he said, “Go away, for the girl is not dead but sleeping.” And they laughed at him.25 But when the crowd had been put outside, he went in and took her by the hand, and the girl arose. 26 And the report of this went through all that district. (Matthew 9)
Jesus would not be distracted. He was on His way to raise the ruler's daughter, and He carried through on His intention.  But He was not so driven that nothing nor no one could receive His attention. He was able to multi-task, continuing to show compassion to all who came His way.  In a sense, both of these people were as good as dead.  The daughter was proclaimed dead by physicians, and the woman had pursued every option for healing, with no hope in sight. Until she met Jesus.  In both cases, His reputation had preceeded Him, and in neither one did He indicate any doubt of His ability, desire, and purpose in healing them.  In His eyes, they were as good as not dead, becoming instruments of praise and thanksgiving to God the Son Who came to make a difference.  Who or what in your life seems, beyond hope, as good as dead? Not with Jesus.