“When Jesus saw their faith, he said, ‘Friend, your sins are forgiven you.’’‘ -Luke 5:20
Tucked amidst the account of Jesus’ calling of the disciples are a few stories of healing. Likely the intention of the writer was to illustrate the unique and impressive power that Jesus possessed. Yet within a theologically dense passage about physical healing, forgiveness of sin and the divinity of Jesus, a beautiful tale of friendship shines.
When those carrying a person who was paralyzed realize the crowd is too large to get close to Jesus, their perseverance and inventive idea leads them to lowering their friend through the roof of the house in order to reach Jesus.
Sometimes we are limited in our perspective or beliefs about what wholeness looks like. We are fixated on a particular resolution or path. Or perhaps we are resigned to living with a particular pain or limitation.
Whether you find yourself carrying hope for a suffering friend or being carried by the faith of your friends, healing and release are available to you. Through the persistent and creative work of these companions, the paralytic encounters Jesus and receives what is needed to be made well.
Your healing and hope come in many, and at times, surprising, ways, O God. May I be a “signpost” of shalom for those who call me friend. Amen.
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