Serving in Faith
By Dawn Okrasinski
The story of Jesus healing the person with paraplegia after his friends lowered him down from the roof of the temple just begs for backstory. Who were these men? Can you see them sitting in the courtyard of one of their homes at the end of the day of labor, talking excitedly about this Jesus of Nazareth coming to teach? One of them had seen someone being healed or had heard it from a friend and shared this wonder in hushed whispers. I wonder if one was sitting back listening, thinking of his brother recently injured and paralyzed. Could this Jesus heal him? As the conversation continued, these men, with a shared connection, began to speak about their beliefs and their doubts. One argued Law vs. Faith. One may have felt obligated to point out that this Jesus could be dangerous, but his heart told him otherwise, thus fueling a flame in the others to want to know why. Whatever the discussion entailed, they decided to see this Jesus for themselves. The quiet one finally spoke up, suggesting they take his younger sibling along. If this holy man was healing lepers and the lame, perhaps they would experience a miracle too.
The day came, and they trudged into town, pulling the incapacitated man on a litter between them. The sun beat down on their shoulders as others from nearby villages, anxious to see Jesus, shoved past them. Weary and thirsty, they shuffled on. Snippets of talk filled with tales of miracles this Jesus had delivered days earlier only fortified their determination and quickened their steps. Then, when they finally arrived, they realized, to their dismay, that the crowd was several hundred strong.
The men quickly devised a plan to go up to the temple's terrace and figure a way to lower the litter down. Sharing a collective mission, they did a remarkable thing. " When they could not find a way to do this because of the crowd, they went up on the roof and lowered him on his mat through the tiles into the middle of the crowd, right in front of Jesus. When Jesus saw their faith, he said, “Friends, your sins are forgiven.” Luke 5:19-20 (NIV)
There is a holy moment when one gives in faith and receives back Christ’s love and forgiveness. The experience changes us. When we attend in faith, there is a synergistic blessing building trust, modeling God’s truth, and often illuminating from within what Jesus has done for us. This blessing is in the exact measure God wishes to impart to the receiver and the giver for his purpose and has an exponential effect. To equip his people for works of service so that the body of Christ may be built up. Eph 4:12 (NIV) As we lift and encourage others forward in unity, we cannot help but grow in faith while causing a ripple around us. Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.1 Thessalonians 5:11 (NIV)
Healing and redemption did not stop with the sure stride of one healed man walking down a dusty road with a rolled-up mat. Redemption continued throughout the ages because believers continued to pray unceasingly, act in steadfast faith, and forgive as Christ forgave. Now, more than ever, we are called to bring unity and healing to our families, our nation, and our Church of God. This challenge to encourage and seek restoration is no less daunting than what was before those men on that temple roof. But here is what we have going for us; we know how the story will turn out. So, my friends, begin walking in faith, pray earnestly for each other, and watch the miracles unfold.
Reflection:
1 Thessalonians 5:16-19 (NIV) Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. Do not quench the spirit.
James 5:15 (NLT) Such a prayer offered in faith will heal the sick, and the Lord will make you well, and if you have committed any sins, you will be forgiven.
Mark 9:50 (CEB) Salt is good, but if the salt loses its saltiness, how will it become salty again? Maintain salt among yourselves and keep peace with each other and live in peace with each other.
Action:
Continue to pray for CCCOG that our hearts and minds will be opened to God’s plan for our church as we transition to a new pastor.
Reach out to pray with someone each day this week.
If you need prayer and healing ask for it either from the elders or another believer.
