The Paralysed Man

Have you ever waited so long for something that you really wanted, but in the end, you gave up hope that you would ever receive it?

In the Bible, we read a story of a man who desperately wanted something and waited in hope for 38 years.

A cacophony of sounds filled the atmosphere. People were crying and moaning in misery. A multitude of sick, blind, lame, and paralysed men and women gathered at the pool of Bethesda waiting in vain for a chance to have their lives turned around. They believed that when the water rippled, they could be healed if they were the first to enter the water.

Then, when it happened, there would be a great rush to get into the water. Of course, the one who got in first was bound to be the most active – the very one who was least in need of healing! The worst cases would never get into the water in time.

This was the scene that confronted the disciples as Jesus took them through one of the most miserable places possible, in Jerusalem. The Bible says that Jesus singled out a paralysed man that had been living at the pool and waiting in hope for 38 years. This man was the most miserable of all and had been waiting the longest with little hope of a cure and had no one to help him into the pool.

Jesus asks him “Do you want to get well?” The man is at first dismissive of yet another nosey passer-by, not realising that standing in front of him was the only man that can truly heal him. All his failed attempts had caused him to nearly give up hope and miss the opportunity of true healing that Jesus was offerings.

“Stand up, carry your mat and walk.” Jesus says and then He melts into the crowd.

The paralysed man has a choice. Follow this stranger’s direction or continue in his self-pitying thoughts. Power surges through the man’s body. He stands, pain free and walks for the first time in 38 years!

There are many times in our lives that we may feel helpless or lose hope in situations. We often rely on human efforts, to no avail. The great thing is, Jesus sees our needs. All we have to do is listen to Jesus and have enough faith, like the paralysed man to ‘get up and walk’. God’s wonderful grace can heal our hearts, minds and bodies. We don’t always deserve it; we can’t earn it or buy it; but God showers us with love anyway.

If you have any prayer requests please send them to me at: phillillehagen@ppn.sa.edu.au

Have a great week,

Chaplain Phil