40 Days of MiraclesSample

Jesus Heals a Paralytic who was let Down From the Roof

The healing of this paralyzed man, like other healing stories, teaches several important things: faith, obedience, healing, and strength. One unique aspect of this story is how the man and his friends actively participate in a spiritual community. This community believes in Jesus, listens to His teaching, cares for each other’s needs, and walks alongside one another while living out their faith. When the opportunity for healing comes, they carry the paralyzed man to Jesus. When the crowd blocks the opportunity, they open a hole in the roof. They are so determined to help their friend that they come up with an ingenious way to get him to Jesus.

Jesus forgives the paralyzed man and ultimately heals him because He saw his faith and their faith (v.5). God honors this posture of community and friendship in Christ. He is pleased to offer His abundant blessings to those brought to Him within a loving community. As Christ says, “No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love him.” (1Cor 2:9)

Questions for Reflection

• What aspects of your life are bringing you to metaphorical paralysis? What is preventing you from pursuing your story with Christ to its fullest?
• Do you have someone walk alongside you in your spiritual journey? Prayerfully ask God to bring you to a community in which you belong.
• Do you have “paralyzed” friends or neighbors? Do they belong to a spiritual community? Have you asked God to give you creative ways to carry them to Christ?