Jacob had a restless night, one filled with dreams. His dream of the ladder and angels was vivid and reassuring, so much so that he was convinced that God had been there without his knowledge. The words of God in the dream are also meant for us: I am with you wherever you go! We need to remember this when things get difficult or painful. How often God has been present without our being aware of it. Truly, the ground upon which we stand is holy, for God is there too.

The robe of Jesus was not magical and it did not heal the woman with the flow of blood. Her great faith, especially her perseverance, worked the miracle. She knew in her heart that Jesus would do something wonderful for her, so she pressed her way through the crowds. If only our own faith were as strong. The friends and family of the little girl were not quite as filled with faith. They laughed at Jesus when he insisted that she was not dead but merely sleeping. Most people would laugh, because we think in human rather than divine ways. But with God all things are possible - even death melts away before the power of God. Faith is the key that unlocks our heart and soul, allowing the power of God to enter and heal us. Only we have the key, and God does not force His way in.