2.21.2015
Saturday Mark
2:1-17 Jesus forgives and heals a paralytic
Jesus heals a lame man
There is mercy in Jesus’ forgiveness and
healing. He forgives and heals a paralytic. Jesus heals a man, which leads to a
controversy with religious leaders. Jesus demonstrates that He has the authority
and power to forgive sins and to heal a physical ailment, in this case,
paralysis. The man was carried to Jesus for physical healing, but Jesus sees
his need in spiritual healing. There is a connection between sin and sickness.
Only God can heal physical and spiritual diseases. Jesus as the Son of Man,
forgives the man’s sins and is charged with blasphemy which is punishable by
death. This same authority is exercised by ordering the paralytic to get up and
go home.
On the basis of the four men’s faith,
Jesus gave absolution to the paralytic. Their faith was evident. They would not
have carried the man to Jesus if they did not believe He could and would heal
him. They were so concerned and determined to get him to Jesus that they tore
open a roof and carefully, with great effort, lowered him into the crowded
room. Does this answer whether others can have faith for us? Is there a
vicarious faith? The prayers of the faithful on our behalf are answered because
thy pray in faith.[2]
Forgiveness is Christ’s greatest gift to
the world. It is the answer to our greatest need. Jesus proved that He had the
right to forgive sins with this miracle of healing. He proved it also by
reading the thoughts of the Scribes, thoughts they believed were concealing in
their hearts. With this gift of forgiveness we can be helped to face every
other need with confidence in our Father’s love. Not all Christians appreciate
the forgiveness of sins. Satan directs their attention to other things. People
are too concerned with the body. Some doubt God’s love for them. Sickness
suggests that God is angry. On the other hand, some are able to suffer pain
cheerfully, committing themselves completely into the hands of the Lord. Let us
then encourage each other, committing ourselves to the Father’s care.
Almighty and everlasting God, mercifully look upon our
infirmities, and in all our dangers and necessities stretch forth your right
hand to help and defend us; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns
with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.[3]
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