Stand Up

And after getting into a boat he crossed the water and came to his own town. And just then some people were carrying a paralysed 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

Having lived with repeated spinal and knee surgeries there have been times in my life when I could not walk.  I have always been blessed with skilled surgeons, and been blessed by communities and my family who have held me in prayer. Being dependent on other for one's basic needs is terribly hard. We all want to pick up our beds and walk home. And yet, the faith of the paralytic's friends, was what changed everything, and what still changes everything. The faith of the beloved community draws Christ near.

Holy Creator, you forgive us all

you seek to being light to our darkness

and healing to our broken places.

Help us to take up our beds and walk

let us run with joy to our homes

sharing the good news of your love

to our communities in need of that love. Amen.