Jesus had become a popular celebrity and a crowd gathered to welcome Him back to His Galilean base, which was probably in Capernaum.  However, the religious leaders were very suspicious of Him, fearing that He might undermine their authority (Luke 6:7).  But there are times when personal needs become more important than political principles as Jairus found. He was the respected Synagogue Ruler in the town; the man who presided over religious services, acted as a judge in community disputes and represented the congregation outside the local community.

The woman, who touched the edge of Jesus' cloak, was desperate (Matthew 9:20-21).  Twelve years of social isolation as a result of her condition also excluded her from worship and the great festivals of Israel (Leviticus 15:19-30).  Dr Luke who wrote this account seems a little shy of telling us, "She had suffered a great deal under the care of many doctors and had spent all she had, yet instead of getting better she grew worse." (Mark 5:26)! In coming to Jesus, she did not know what to expect from Him, but believed that she would be healed (Mark 5:28).

The story so far: Jairus, the synagogue ruler, had come to Jesus because his daughter was very ill (Luke 8:40-42). Jesus agreed to visit the family's home but was delayed on the way (Luke 8:43-48).  Meanwhile the girl had died and a messenger brought the news to Jairus, and said not to trouble Jesus any further (Luke 8:49).  However, Jesus was not deterred, telling Jairus that if he believed, his girl would be healed (Luke 8:50).  Arriving at the house, and silencing the traditional loud mourning, He took Peter, James and John with Him to see the dead child (Luke 8:51-53).

Today's title has a double meaning.  Wherever disciples of Jesus travel, they are the light of the world - His agents to illuminate this dark world with the gospel (Matthew 5:14).  But they also need to 'travel light'.  That is, they must go in faith, trusting that the Lord will provide for them physically as well as spiritually. Without any reserve provisions, they must depend on Him to supply daily bread and every need.