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.”