February 21, 2015

Friends Gave Him a Lift

Nancy Smith

Matthew 9:2, 6,7    

     Some men brought to him a paralytic lying on a mat.  When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, “Take heart, son; your sins are forgiven.” 

     Then he said to the paralytic,  “Get up and take up your mat and go home.”  And the man got up and went home.

How do friends play a role in your faith story?  Does Jesus put friends in your life to help strengthen your walk with him?  As I read this scripture it struck me that Jesus was looking at the men who brought their friend to be healed.  The scripture says, “when he saw their faith” He healed their friend.  This friend didn’t have a fever, or any broken bones or even a major illness.  He was crippled with palsy and couldn’t get around by himself.  Those friends must have had deep compassion for their friend.

I remember there were many lonely days when I moved from Wheeling to Durham. It was a hard move. I left friends and neighbors who meant a lot to me.

Durham was different.  It took a while to get to know people and form friendships.  Soon I found a job I loved and made good friends. I joined a fellowship of believers and they became part of a new circle of people God put in my path. I began to step out and find new opportunities to serve.   I began to teach Sunday School, work in Children’s Ministry, go on Mission trips and I found exciting opportunities to serve God.  I got up and took my mat and found a purpose.  My friends helped me get there.  They led the way for me.

The paralytic came to Jesus with the help of his friends.  He was weak and couldn’t get around without help.  Jesus gave him healing and strength and he was able to walk home.   He got up and was obedient.  Jesus was the one who helped him go on his way to a new life.

Prayer:  Dear Jesus, thank you for the many friends we have and for the part they play in our faith story.