Take Heart

And after getting into a boat he crossed the water 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

Several days into this Covid diagnosis, I ache to have a miraculous healing. I believe in healing prayer and have seen how much good has been done. I have also witnessed people shamed for their lack of healing indicates a lack of faith. Jesus did not heal people because of their powerful faith or lack thereof, but rather because of his overwhelming love and compassion, and a desire to teach the love of God made visible. The thing I have learned this year, is that healing, whether instantaneous or over time, is a gift of God's, with insights and wisdom along the way. God's love in with us and in us throughout, acting for our good always.

Precious Creator, you healed the paralytic

you bend towards our broken world

binding us up and renewing us all

in every time and in every season.

We whine and cry with our pains 

you hear us and have compassion

our lack of faith seems to limit healing

yet you have promised love to us all.

Help us to know you healing touch

and to be patient and kind as we heal

knowing that your love is enough

and your compassion is all encompassing. Amen.