There was no time for the other disciples to ask, "Where were you, and what were you doing?" They had their hands full. The teachers of the Law were giving them a very bad time. When Jesus asked what the fuss was all about, it turned out that a man had brought his son, possessed with a devil, to be healed. They couldn't do it. It gave all sorts of material to the teachers of the Law. They were giving the disciples grief.
Jesus' conversation with the father concludes with Jesus saying all things are possible to those who believe. The man responds with a prayer that has meant so much to so many through the centuries: "I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief" (Mark 9:24b). Jesus responds by casting out the demon.
Later, the disciples ask why they had been unable to cast out the demon. Jesus responded that this kind of demon could only be cast out with prayer. Apparently, the disciples had begun to take for granted their ability to heal and cast out demons. They forgot what we all too often forget as well.
In our earnest desire to help others in their needs, we must not forget to connect to God's power through humble faith and prayer. Prayer is one of the ways that we recognize our belief and our unbelief.
THE PRAYER: Lord, I do believe. Help me overcome my unbelief. Amen.
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