This story, found only in Mark, is one of intriguing interest, a masterpiece of Mark’s storytelling ability, and with a punchline to make it memorable. I have used it in a sermon on faith, titled “Things you always wanted to know about faith, and were afraid to ask.” More simply, it speaks of “Faith: its example, testing and reward.” The boy is sick and the father has an obvious need of help. But the nine disciples are confessedly powerless. Perhaps we should not