March 28, 2017
One man was there who had been ill for thirty-eight years…Jesus said to him, “Rise, take up your mat, and walk.” Immediately the man became well, took up his mat, and walked. (John 5:1-16)
The Gospel readings during Lent offer us a number of healing stories. Last Sunday we heard the story of the blind man whose sight was restored. Today, a man who had been ill for thirty-eight years is healed with a few simple words from Jesus.
These stories remind us of our own afflictions, the baggage with which we are burdened. For some of us, it is baggage we have carried around for years. There may be shame that comes along with that baggage – “I am not worthy of forgiveness. My sins are too great.”
No disrespect intended…but your sins are not special. God has seen and heard it all.
Lent is a time to drop your baggage at the feet of Jesus. It is a time to confess your sins and be relieved of your burden. “Rise, leave your burden, and walk.”
Rick:
I assume you may know that Don & Betty Nester are fighting the virus! Betty has been admitted to IU North while Don is on a 14 day quarantine at home. It would be great if you might text one or both and extend ‘get well’ messages in hopes of offering some reassurance and confidence of a positive outcome.
Thx…….John Stumpf
Sent from my iPhone
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will do…thank you for letting me know!