Crime scene investigations have become very popular television programs. They come in many different shapes and sizes, but the bottom line is figuring out “whodunit.” Some explore what is would have been like before DNA testing and laser spectrometry (Inspector Moorse). Some even look back to the days before fingerprint were used as identifying markers (Cadfael). Some even push into the future inventing technology that doesn’t exist (Doctor Who). Some specialize in particular types of crimes (SVU).
No matter what particular twist is taken in these shows they all feed on our human desire to solve mysteries. We start asking questions as toddlers in order to fill in the blanks in our world. We want to know why the sky is blue and when we find out have more questions. This is a primary way that we learn. We ask questions. Maybe not out loud, or to other people, but we often ask questions to ourselves and then seek answers.
The woman in our text has just touched Jesus clothes and been healed. She is trying to slip back into the crowd that is gathered in order to make her escape. That was her plan. Silent and unnoticed. In and out. But Jesus has other plans
Jesus notices that someone has received healing be believing touching Him will bring that healing. This person has faith in Him, but not a mature faith. It is a magical faith. Jesus wants to bring a fullness to that belief that will free her from more than just the bleeding. Jesus wants to restore her to fullness of life and relationship.
So when He asks “who touched me?” He is doing it to complete her restoration. Jesus knows who she is. Remember, He is God. He asks to bring her closer, not to solve a mystery.
But Jesus’ disciples question Jesus’ experience. They think Jesus is just being overly sensitive. Lots of people are touching Him. We are in a crowd, after all.
Jesus’ question is about restoration of the woman, not solving a mystery. He knows that before she is whole, she must identify herself. Her healing involves more than the cessation of bleeding. She needs to be restored to the community.
Jesus’ disciples are again one step behind. They think Jesus is just getting overly sensitive about being in crowds. You’re in a crowd. What do you expect? Everyone is getting touched. It’s no big deal. Let it go. At that point they are way behind the power curve. Jesus wants to give the woman an opportunity for relationship with Him.
Disagreeing with Jesus is not a good thing when it dulls your relationship with Him. The disciples think they have figured out what is going on in that moment. But they were wrong. When something doesn’t seem right, and we begin disagreeing with the LORD, trying to put Him in His place, passing on all our wisdom to the LORD, then we are in a bad place. Anytime we disagree with God, we are in the wrong.
The Arnold Journey 