Mark 9:23–24

Mark 9:20–27

They brought him to him, and when he saw him, immediately the spirit convulsed him and he fell on the ground, wallowing and foaming at the mouth. He asked his father, “How long has it been since this has been happening to him?” He said, “From childhood. Often it has cast him both into the fire and into the water to destroy him. But if you can do anything, have compassion on us and help us.” Jesus said to him, “If you can believe, all things are possible to him who believes.” Immediately the father of the child cried out with tears, “I believe. Help my unbelief!” When Jesus saw that a multitude came running together, he rebuked the unclean spirit, saying to him, “You mute and deaf spirit, I command you, come out of him, and never enter him again!” After crying out and convulsing him greatly, it came out of him. The boy became like one dead, so much that most of them said, “He is dead.” But Jesus took him by the hand and raised him up; and he arose.

Context note · editorial

A father seeking help for his son speaks honestly about belief and unbelief. His words are part of a specific encounter with Jesus and leave room for an imperfect prayer.