And they laughed and jeered at Him. But He put them all out, and, taking the child’s father and mother and those who were with Him, He went in where the little girl was lying. Mark 5:40 (AMPC)
Most North Americans’ sense of humour involves sarcasm. In your life, chances are you know some friends or co-workers who are constantly sarcastic. They likely have a knack for making snarky, cynical comments that often come off as funny.
But we should choose our company carefully because the more we’re around perpetually sarcastic people, the more quickly we can begin to follow suit.
What is sarcasm? It is someone mockingly speaking their doubt and unbelief. The Merriam-Webster dictionary describes sarcasm as “a sharp and often satirical or ironic utterance designed to cut or give pain.”
And you know what? Jesus didn’t allow scornful people around Him.
In Mark 5:35–43, Jesus went to the home of Jairus, an important Jewish official whose sick daughter had just died. Jairus’ house was full of weeping, wailing mourners and lots of commotion. Jesus said, “Why the fuss? His daughter isn’t dead; she’s just asleep.” And the crowd instantly ridiculed Him. What did Jesus do with this bunch of sarcastic people?
Today’s verse says He kicked them all out! After doing so, He went into the girl’s room with only her parents and three of His disciples and brought her back to life. You see, the scornful crowd can cost you your miracle by negatively influencing you to adopt their disbelieving, cynical attitude.
If you’re believing for the miraculous to take place, don’t stick with those who ridicule. Follow the advice Jesus gave Jairus instead: “Don’t listen to them; just trust me” (Mark 5:36, MSG). He knows best!
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