Mark 9:1-32

Actions speak louder than words. At least that is what I’ve always heard and I do believe it is true.

The boy’s father begs Jesus, “If you can do anything for us, take pity on us and help us.” Jesus replied, “If you can? Everything is possible for him who believes.” To which the father replies, “I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief.”

Some who hold this father up as one lacking faith; at least his words betrayed a lack of what some would call faith. I think that is absurd. In the first place the child was delivered so whatever faith the father had was enough to get what he needed. I’ll take that any day.

Secondly, who can honestly contend that the statement, “I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief” isn’t the real cry of every one of us? I guess it doesn’t apply to those who don’t believe at all, but those who do believe will inevitably be brought to this place at some point and possibly many times in their lives. It’s OK.

Finally, hadn’t the father’s actions already shouted his belief? I’ve heard it said that 90% of success is simply showing up, and I believe that isn’t far off of the truth. How many parents with sick children didn’t bother to come to Jesus. This man came and when Jesus wasn’t there and the disciples were unable to help he didn’t leave, he waited. He waited. He believed. He prevailed. I’ll take that any day.