When Jesus returned to Capernaum after some days, it became known that he was at home. Many gathered together so that there was no longer room for them, not even around the door, and he preached the word to them. They came bringing to him a paralytic carried by four men. Unable to get near Jesus because of the crowd, they opened up the roof above him. After they had broken through, they let down the mat on which the paralytic was lying. When Jesus saw their faith, he said to him, “Child, your sins are forgiven.” Now some of the scribes were sitting there asking themselves, “Why does this man speak that way? He is blaspheming. Who but God alone can forgive sins?” Jesus immediately knew in his mind what they were thinking to themselves, so he said, “Why are you thinking such things in your hearts? Which is easier, to say to the paralytic, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Rise, pick up your mat and walk’? But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority to forgive sins on earth”–he said to the paralytic, “I say to you, rise, pick up your mat, and go home.” He rose, picked up his mat at once, and went away in the sight of everyone. They were all astounded and glorified God, saying, “We have never seen anything like this.”
REFLECTION
.."the Son of Man has authority to forgive sins on earth”
PERSISTENCE: Unable to go through the door, they climbed, dug, and lowered their friend through the roof. They were not held back because it was someone else's home, or it was too much work or perhaps eventually realizing that it was not a good idea because it took too much effort. They did not give up.
FAITH: Jesus saw their faith. The "patient" who trusted in his friends, was jostled about as they lowered him into the house. Having lost his ability to care for himself, his friends carried him willingly and lovingly as they knew and trusted Jesus. We all need others.
NEEDS: Our profound need may not be the one we name. "Child your sins are forgiven", were spoken before the actual physical healing. Jesus tends to the whole person, healing body, mind and soul. He restores relationships, our fallen nature, our relationship with Him. And guess what? He forgives!
LOVE: Love freely, expecting no recompense nor gratitude. Do not hold it over someone that you helped them.
Jesus is the authority who forgives and heals.
Am I helping others to see Jesus through my love, deeds and composure?
Am I willing to let go amidst my messiness, and let God take over?
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