In Mark 9, when Jesus returns from his mountaintop transfiguration, a somewhat peculiar scene unfolds before him. At the end of the trail a group of people was crowded around his disciples, with no small amount of commotion. A man had brought his young demon-possessed son to be healed. Despite their valiant efforts, the disciples simply could not command this demon’s exit. And so, Jesus gets involved.

In verse twenty-two the father desperately cries, “If you can do anything, have compassion on us and help us.” Jesus’ response is one that tends to contradict many of our mental pictures of him. “‘If you can’! All things are possible for one who believes.”Now, the text does not specifically say it, but it’s logical to see a sense of indignance and annoyance in Jesus’ words. It seems unusual because its an emotion that is often left out of our depictions of Jesus, as though his usually unflappable demeanor meant that he could never be aggravated. Yet, you don’t get mistaken for Elijah or John the Baptist without possessing a fiery disposition at times (see Matt. 16:14). It is completely in line with Jesus’ character to express a justified annoyance. The big question is, “What is he upset about?”

Consider his response again. “‘If you can’! All things are possible for one who believes.”Despite all the evidence visible in Jesus’ ministry, this man had the audacity to question both Jesus’ power and willingness to help. This is why he came! This is what he does! “Why are ALL of you lacking faith?” The father lacked it, the disciples lacked it, and (presumably) the surrounding crowd lacked it. Is it any wonder the Son of God would become agitated at this obvious failure to trust his power and goodness?

The father’s next words still stand as a refreshing response to such a rebuke. “I believe; help my unbelief!”  There is no further scolding, but an immediate answer by healing the boy.

Sometimes, I wonder if God does not feel the same frustration with me. I see the evidence. I have his word. And yet, somehow, I have the audacity to question if God is able and willing to intervene. I seek out the experts without consulting him in prayer. I run myself ragged trying to learn more and be stronger, instead of letting his strength carry me. I allow my mind to become overwhelmed with anxiety over what to do next, and yet fail to seek his guidance. I maintain a white-knuckled grip on the situation instead of laying it down at Jesus’ feet. Maybe, I’m alone in this. But I doubt it.

Oh Lord, I do believe. Help my unbelief!

Cory Waddell