In the fifth chapter of John we find the story of an invalid. He couldn’t walk. He couldn’t work. He couldn’t even get into the pool of Bethesda. He was out of options. But God’s efforts are strongest when our efforts are useless. Jesus told the man, “Stand up. Pick up your mat and walk.” And the man immediately obeyed.
I wish we would do that. I wish we would take Jesus at his word. What is this peculiar paralysis that confines us—this stubborn unwillingness to be healed? When he says we’re forgiven, let’s unload the guilt. When he says we’re valuable, let’s believe him. When he says we’re provided for, let’s stop worrying. When he says, “Stand up,” let’s do it.
Is this your story? A gentle stranger has stepped into your hurting world and offered you a hand. Now it’s up to you to take it.
Read more He Still Moves Stones
