When Jesus is absent, it is as though nothing goes right for the disciples. In this instance, they are unable to expel an evil spirit. The disciples were unable to expel the demon because of the lack of belief and their lack of prayerfulness. As a result, Jesus rebukes them, as well as the scribes and Pharisees and the people for their lack of faith.

In contrast to the disciples, stands the father of the boy. Initially, this man too lacked faith and had doubted the power of Jesus. Jesus strongly reminds him that faith does not put limits to the power of God. In response, the man cries out and acknowledges his lack of faith and looks to Jesus for help. As such, although it is Jesus who heals the boy, it is the father's profession of faith that Mark holds up for the readers to imitate.

Without Jesus, like the disciples, we too are helpless. However, even in the most desperate moments, Jesus invites us, his followers to go one step further and pray like the boy's father "I do believe! Help my unbelief!" In this way, Jesus reminds us today that anything is possible to one who trusts in him and trust is deepened in prayer. Therefore, we must seek to find union with Jesus in prayer if we are to share in his power and have part in his work.