“Except Ye See Signs and Wonders”
157
Like Jacob he prevailed. The Saviour cannot withdraw from the
soul that clings to Him, pleading its great need. “Go thy way,” He
said; “thy son liveth.” The nobleman left the Saviour’s presence with
a peace and joy he had never known before. Not only did he believe
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that his son would be restored, but with strong confidence he trusted
in Christ as the Redeemer.
At the same hour the watchers beside the dying child in the home
at Capernaum beheld a sudden and mysterious change. The shadow
of death was lifted from the sufferer’s face. The flush of fever gave
place to the soft glow of returning health. The dim eyes brightened
with intelligence, and strength returned to the feeble, emaciated frame.
No signs of his malady lingered about the child. His burning flesh
had become soft and moist, and he sank into a quiet sleep. The fever
had left him in the very heat of the day. The family were amazed, and
great was the rejoicing.
Cana was not so far from Capernaum but that the officer might
have reached his home on the evening after his interview with Jesus;
but he did not hasten on the homeward journey. It was not until the
next morning that he reached Capernaum. What a homecoming was
that! When he went to find Jesus, his heart was heavy with sorrow. The
sunshine seemed cruel to him, the songs of the birds a mockery. How
different his feelings now! All nature wears a new aspect. He sees with
new eyes. As he journeys in the quiet of the early morning, all nature
seems to be praising God with him. While he is still some distance
from his own dwelling, servants come out to meet him, anxious to
relieve the suspense they are sure he must feel. He shows no surprise
at the news they bring, but with a depth of interest they cannot know he
asks at what hour the child began to mend. They answer, “Yesterday
at the seventh hour the fever left him.” At the very moment when
the father’s faith grasped the assurance, “Thy son liveth,” divine love
touched the dying child.
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The father hurries on to greet his son. He clasps him to his heart
as one restored from the dead, and thanks God again and again for this
wonderful restoration.
The nobleman longed to know more of Christ. As he afterward
heard His teaching, he and all his household became disciples. Their
affliction was sanctified to the conversion of the entire family. Tidings
of the miracle spread; and in Capernaum, where so many of His mighty