This is the second of seven posts highlighting lessons we can learn from a variety of different Bible characters. “Your faith has made you well.” Who is it that is privileged to hear these words from Jesus? A woman who has been bleeding for 12 years, and who touches his cloak in a desperate bid for healing.  I’ve read this story numerous times and Jesus’ words always catch my attention.  Why? Because doctors…trained to know the human body and the healing arts…have failed her. In fact, she has spent all of her money pursuing the wisdom that the physicians of her day have to offer. Nothing. Furthermore, because of her incessant bleeding, she is considered ritually unclean under Jewish law. As a result, she is not able to freely socialize. She cannot participate in the spiritual life of the community. This woman’s life is tragic. No relief. No community. No access to God. Yet, she continues to have faith, despite being stigmatized and marginalized and isolated. A situa...