Being Restored (Luke 7:11-17)

Luke 7:11-17   11 Soon afterwards Jesus went to a town called Nain, and his disciples and a large crowd went with him.  12 As he approached the gate of the town, a man who had died was being carried out. He was his mother's only son, and she was a widow; and with her was a large crowd from the town.  13 When the Lord saw her, he had compassion for her and said to her, "Do not weep."  14 Then he came forward and touched the bier, and the bearers stood still. And he said, "Young man, I say to you, rise!"  15 The dead man sat up and began to speak, and Jesus gave him to his mother.  16 Fear seized all of them; and they glorified God, saying, "A great prophet has risen among us!" and "God has looked favorably on his people!"  17 This word about him spread throughout Judea and all the surrounding country. 

The emotions in this story are strong...

We hurt for the woman because she has already lost her husband and now her son.  The woman is crying.... but Jesus compassionately says, "Do not cry!" Those aren't empty words... he is going to bring her son back to life!!

Jesus touches the casket - which once again makes him "unclean" in order to bring life.  In shock, the pall bearers stop.  But Jesus can restore unclean things - bring the decaying back to health and vitality.  And when Jesus speaks to the dead man, he speaks with a tender title as one who knows him: "Young man."

And the unbelievable happens!  The young man is restored.

Then fear seizes everyone!  But in their fear, they recognize Jesus and praise God.

We have a savior who feels our emotions - who cares that we hurt - who restores our brokenness to strength and vitality!  Just let him...