Stand Up

And after getting into a boat Jesus crossed the sea and came to his own town. And just then some people were carrying a paralyzed man lying on a bed. When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, “Take heart, son; your sins are forgiven.” Then some of the scribes said to themselves, “This man is blaspheming.” But Jesus, perceiving their thoughts, said, “Why do you think evil in your hearts? For which is easier, to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Stand up and walk’? But so that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins” – he then said to the paralytic – “Stand up, take your bed and go to your home.” And he stood up and went to his home. When the crowds saw it, they were filled with awe, and they glorified God, who had given such authority to human beings. Matthew 9:1-8

O Great Creator who carries us daily

you healed all those who came to you

you breathe hope in our broken places

and lead us in new directions and places.

We are too comfortable with our pain

and like to keep others low and hurting

we judge and condemn before we know

and think ourselves superior to others.

Yet you walked among us and saw us

whole and broken you loved them all

and you love us in our struggles and pain

calling us to pick up our beds and walk.

Help us Lord to speak our needs out loud

and honor the wants and needs of others

we want to stand up, walk and be healed

so that we might live with compassion today. Amen.