Devotion - Thursday, January 17

Mark 2:1-12 tells us of the paralytic whose friends get creative in bringing him to Jesus.  When they can't get in the front door, the remove tiles from the roof and lower him to the center of the room.

The exchange which follows attempts to show Jesus' role, by his offering two things to the man - things which are both wonderful; things which are clearly in the realm of God.

The first thing Jesus says to him is "Your sins are forgiven."  This upsets the religious authorities, "Who but God can forgive sins?"  Jesus then asks them which is easier, to say "your sins are forgiven" or to say "get up and walk?"  So Jesus then tells the man to get up, and walk.  Which he does.

It is probably easier to say "Your sins are forgiven."  After all, who knows whether that has been accomplished?  In a way, no one knows, until judgement day.  If we say "Get up and walk," then folks will be able to determine rather quickly the power of our words and command.  The former may be easier to say; it may also be the more difficult to accomplish.

While not intending to diminish the desire for healing in those who cannot walk, or are battling cancer, or are loosing their vision - the struggle to feel forgiven and reunited tears not merely at our body but at our spirit/at our soul.  Forgiveness, and its promise of being in right relationship(s), gives us the foundation upon which we can endure many physical hardships.

I remember during my seminary days speaking to a friend who had betrayed his wedding vows with another of the congregational leaders.  He  cautioned me against ever speaking the absolution on a Sunday morning without imagining the sins which had just been confessed in the Brief Order.  He spoke of wanting to grab the pastor by the robe and say, "Do you know what I have done?  Are you sure you can assure me that God has forgiven me?"

I hope it is not a fear of being exposed which leads me to seldom pronounce a promise of healing.  I pray that it is with deep appreciation for the significance of the offering that I speak of God's forgiveness.  And may it be found to be true that the promise of reunification does happen, when we hear those powerful words - "Your sins are forgiven."