When he returned to Capernaum after some days, it was reported that he was at home. So many gathered around that there was no longer room for them, not even in front of the door; and he was speaking the word to them. Then some people came, bringing to him a paralyzed man, carried by four of them. And when they could not bring him to Jesus because of the crowd, they removed the roof above him; and after having dug through it, they let down the mat on which the paralytic lay. When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, ‘Son, your sins are forgiven.’ Now some of the scribes were sitting there, questioning in their hearts, ‘Why does this fellow speak in this way? It is blasphemy! Who can forgive sins but God alone?’ At once Jesus perceived in his spirit that they were discussing these questions among themselves; and he said to them, ‘Why do you raise such questions in your hearts? Which is easier, to say to the paralytic, “Your sins are forgiven”, or to say, “Stand up and take your mat and walk”? But so that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins’—he said to the paralytic— ‘I say to you, stand up, take your mat and go to your home.’ And he stood up, and immediately took the mat and went out before all of them; so that they were all amazed and glorified God, saying, ‘We have never seen anything like this!’ Mark 2:1-12
No matter how often I hear or read this story, I cannot help but be moved. These were good, actually extraordinary friends, who persisted despite the huge barriers. They did not let the crowd stop them and risked the anger of the homeowner to help their friend. They knew they would also have huge repairs to do, and bills to pay. That kind of love persists despite consequences and pain. That is the love which we have been given. And, that is the love, put into action, which we are called to every day.
Healing Creator, you gave us your love
when we were far off and wracked by fear
when we couldn't walk and we couldn't see
your love filled us all and set us free.
When we suffered in body and mind
we believe you have abandoned us
yet your love is made visible in others
the ones who break through barriers for us.
Help us to see your healing love here
make us those who make your love visible
help us put your love into real action
breaking through so others might be free. Amen.
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