In this text Jesus was very active performing his ministry that included healing people that were beyond hope. One example is of a man who was afflicted by leprosy and was healed. Then Jesus went to the city of Capernaum where his fame accelerated even more. By the time he entered into a house many people shoved their way to hear him preach the word of God. A man was so desperately afflicted by palsy (which among other things included severe pain and paralysis) that he was forced to be bedridden. When his four friends heard that Jesus was in the area, they did not hesitate to carry him to the house where Jesus was speaking.
The house that was constructed for most people was made of reeds or thorn bushes. Over this was a layer of earth, sand, or pebbles. Since the roof was largely made of clay or dirt, grass could easily grow on the top of the houses. The man’s friends would not be deferred. They bolstered the sick man onto the roof. The four of them dug a hole in the roof so they could lower the stretcher down in front of Jesus. In reply to their effort, Jesus declared the man sick of palsy that he had his sins forgiven. Among the crowd were scribes who began a debate that only God could forgive sins. Jesus confirmed his identity as the Son of man who was able to forgive sin. Then he told the man to rise, take up his bed, and go home which caused the bystanders to be amazed and glorified God.
Can you see the significance of this event? Do you see a lesson here for us to learn in our day-to-day walk?
- We serve the only God who has power enough to do whatever is necessary for the moment for us.
- It is our challenge to befriend neighbors and carry their burden with them for whatever extreme is necessary.
- If we declare faith, there must be tangible evidence where we put ourselves on the spot as proof of our dedication.
- The sick man and his four friends joined together in faith believing that God hears and answers prayers.
- As believers, we must seek to come face to face with the Almighty God who will hear and respond.
- While serving God, we cannot allow ourselves to be discouraged by whatever obstacles we find in our way.
- Part of God answering our prayers could include getting our hands dirty while digging into whatever is in our way.
- When our faith functions, we must be willing to join forces with others who also are people of faith.
- Our efforts are focused on he who can forgive sins and heal our lives without hesitation.
It is our privilege to learn from this event and apply it to our lives and to those who might need us in the depth of their spiritual and physical needs. God seeks to empower, to guide, to strengthen anyone who is willing to care enough about someone. In the record of this event, the sick man and his four friends said nothing. They sought no glory for themselves so they might do the work of God. What person is in the sidelines of your life who is waiting for someone of faith to reach out and make a difference.
