It's the Second week of Advent. The last few days have been foggy and muggy, and I'm struck by the significance of Christ, our Light, coming into our world to dispel the gloom and darkness of sin; stooping down to draw closer to us... love coming down at Christmas.
This week in Scripture, I'm amazed at the efforts of a group of men bringing their paralyzed friend to Jesus for healing( Lk 5:17-26 ). Finding no way to bring him through the crowd, they went up to the roof and lowered him on the stretcher, through the tiles, right in front of Jesus. Jesus sees their faith! Their selflessness and concern for their paralyzed friend is rewarded: "As for you, your sins are forgiven."
Let's spend a little time with these men... Like the centurion we encountered in Scripture last week, the men turned to Jesus with their problem: a paralyzed friend needed healing. They recognized Jesus as their source of power and healing, and they were determined to make their way to Him. They overcame every obstacle keeping them from setting him in Jesus' presence. The Pharisees and teachers of the law who were present that day did not avail themselves of Jesus' healing power.
Are we doing all we can to bring those who are paralyzed by the cares of this world to Jesus? Perhaps we are so burdened by our own problems that we are blind to the needs of others. We will receive the healing and love we need in Jesus’ presence.
During this Second week of Advent, may we turn to Jesus with the cares of loved ones and friends, or with our own concerns. May we confidently approach Jesus with our needs, trusting that He will heal us; may we glorify God, and tell others of the "incredible things" we have seen Him accomplish in our lives.
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