2026 Reading Plan Reflections - Day 12

January 12th, 2026
by Walt Martin

Faith, Healing, and Telling the Story

When he came into the house, the blind men approached him. Jesus said to them, 'Do you believe I can do this?'
'Yes, Lord,' they replied.
Then Jesus touched their eyes and said, 'It will happen for you just as you have believed.' Their eyes were opened. Then Jesus sternly warned them, 'Make sure nobody knows about this.' But they went out and spread the word about him throughout that whole region." Matthew 9:28-31

"Now when Jesus saw the crowds, he had compassion for them because they were troubled and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd." Matthew 9:36

"Then he said to his disciples, 'The size of the harvest is bigger than you can imagine, but there are few workers. Therefore, plead with the Lord of the harvest to send out workers for his harvest.'” Matthew 9:37-38

I’m starting to notice recurring themes in these reflections—or maybe God’s Word keeps meeting me right where I am. Today, three themes rise to the surface: faith, healing, and telling the story.

Faith is what draws people to Jesus. Jairus (This story in Mark will confirm his identity), the woman with the bleeding, the blind men, the friends who carried the possessed man—they all approach Jesus believing he can do something. Their faith isn’t abstract or polished; it’s desperate, hopeful, and real. And Jesus responds the same way every time: with compassion.

As I write this from the chemo infusion chair, that combination of faith and healing matters. Jesus still heals. Sometimes physically, sometimes in ways that are quieter but just as real. He meets people where they are—each story different, each need specific. Ask. Seek. Knock. Faith brings us into the presence of a Savior who cares.

But the story doesn’t stop with healing. It moves outward into witness.

I keep asking myself, "How does this bring God glory?" Not just in how I process this journey internally, but in how I carry it publicly. Every nurse eventually asks, “What do you do for work?” Being a pastor doesn’t make me immune to fear or pain—but it does shape how I stand here. A steady smile. A grounded hope. A quiet confidence in who I am in Christ.

In the Navy, there’s a saying: “Every chaplain a recruiter.” The Church could learn from that. Our most compelling testimony isn’t a program or a slogan—it’s a life shaped by faith, compassion, and trust in God’s presence.

So have faith. Trust that Jesus still heals—body, mind, and soul—and tell the story. Let your light shine.

Faith in Motion

Pause and Pray
Name one place in your life where you need Jesus’ compassion or healing—physical, emotional, or spiritual. Ask Him directly. Don’t sanitize it. Faith asks honestly.

Pay Attention
As you move through the day, notice one moment where your attitude, words, or posture can quietly reflect trust in Christ—especially in difficulty or discomfort.

Tell the Story
Share one small piece of what God is doing in you. It doesn’t have to be dramatic. A sentence. A response to a question. A calm confidence. Let your light show up naturally.

Posted in Bible Reading Plan 2026