And some people were carrying to him a paralyzed man lying on a stretcher. When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, “Take heart, child; your sins are forgiven.” Then some of the scribes said to themselves, “This man is blaspheming.” But Jesus, perceiving their thoughts, said, “Why do you think evil in your hearts? For which is easier: to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Stand up and walk’? But so that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins”—he then said to the paralytic—“Stand up, take your bed, and go to your home.” And he stood up and went to his home. When the crowds saw it, they were filled with awe, and they glorified God, who had given such authority to human beings. (Matthew 9:2-8, NRSVue)
When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic…
Did the paralytic want to be healed?
And why would people be upset about someone being healed?
Which is easier: your sins are frgicen or get up and walk?
People have an effect on your life. Those you choose to surround yourself with make a difference on who you are and how you live. The friends of the paralytic wanted to help him, so they carried him to the healer. They knew Jesus could help their friend if they could only get them to Jesus. Community makes a difference.
DOn’t be one who is jealous of others’ healing, but celebrate the wholeness of the community.
Love and freely help those who need to be lifted so the community is better.
It is not about you.
It is about us.
It is about their faith.
