The four men encouraged their friend, “We’ve heard of his miracles—healing you will be a simple task.” Resolute, they hoisted their companion and his bedroll on their shoulders. Navigating the crowded streets of Judea without dropping the bundle became increasingly difficult as they neared the house. Men, women, and children; rich and poor; religious leaders and rebels pushed and prodded to gain access to the one called Rabbi. There was no more room and no way to get any nearer.
Unless….well, it was a longshot. Without hesitation, the men gathered the mat and its contents; maneuvered up the stairs to the roof; and with bare hands ripped each tile from its place. Finally, they glimpsed him below—there, in the midst of the crowd, preaching. Would he resent their boldness? Grow angry at the desperate need of their friend? Glancing nervously at one another, they slowly lowered the bedroll and the man lying upon it at Jesus’ feet.
Undisturbed by the interruption, Jesus glanced upward and then at the weeping, paralyzed man. “I tell you, get up, take your mat and go home.”
Like the paralyzed man and his friends, Jesus calls us to live a life of faith. We can go boldly before Him, lay our “mat” at his feet, and rest in the knowledge He will meet our needs. Put aside your burden today, dear friend. Trust in Him for restoration.
Scripture for Reflection-“I tell you, get up, take your mat and go home. He got up, took his mat and walked out in full view of them all.” – Mark 2:11-12
Action Step Make a list of five areas, concerns, or struggles you are managing today. Pray about them and give them to God–all day long.
Recommended Books
- Believing God by Beth Moore
- Lord, I Need Grace to Make it Today by Kay Arthur
- Choosing Gratitude, Your Journey to Joy by Nancy Leigh DeMoss