Matthew 9:1-8 NRSVue
1And after getting into a boat he crossed the sea and came to his own town.
2And some people were carrying to him a paralyzed man lying on a stretcher. When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, “Take heart, child; your sins are forgiven.” 3Then some of the scribes said to themselves, “This man is blaspheming.” 4But Jesus, perceiving their thoughts, said, “Why do you think evil in your hearts? 5For which is easier: to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Stand up and walk’? 6But so that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins”—he then said to the paralytic—“Stand up, take your bed, and go to your home.” 7And he stood up and went to his home. 8When the crowds saw it, they were filled with awe, and they glorified God, who had given such authority to human beings.
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Some thoughts on this scripture
Reflection
Lord, I believe you had a special word for the carers, the people who carried
the paralysed man and placed him where he caught your attention. It was their
faith that you noticed. Thank you, Lord, for the work of carers, mostly
women, often taken for granted. Sometimes it is the loyal, unmarried daughter
who is left to look after a helpless parent. She may even feel guilty when
she begs for someone to stand in while she takes a well-earned break. These
are the true uncelebrated heroines of our communities; their love is shown in
deeds.
Reflection
The paralysed man was brought to Jesus by friends or neighbours. Forgiveness
for his sins came to him in the company of others, without whom he would not
have got near Jesus. It is the same today. We go to God in the community of
the church and of many others. Our faith, while it is personal, is never to
be private. Faith brings the needs of others to our sight, and faith in Jesus
gives an inspiration to be the ones who help heal the sick and help anyone in
difficulties.
Reflection
"Take heart...stand up...go home." Three encouraging words of Jesus to allow
forgiveness cheer us up, to allow our contact with him to bring us alive and
to know that everywhere on the earth is our home because everywhere is his
home, and he lives within us.
Reflection
The people of Jesus' town were quick to judge, springing to the defence of
the religious principles. They had lost sight of the bigger picture that
Jesus had in view; he wanted to restore health and wholeness.
Reflection
Jesus longs for me to live fully and freely. In this time of prayer I ask for
liberty from what binds me and bring before God my desire for wholeness.
Reflection
It must have been uncomfortable for the Pharisees to have Jesus say out loud
what they spoke quietly and believed in their hearts. Time spent with Jesus
brings the truth to the fore.