Shalom,
Mark 2:1-4:
1 AND JESUS having returned to Capernaum, after some days it was rumored about that He was in the house [probably Peter's]. And so many people gathered together there that there was no longer room [for them], not even around the door; and He was discussing the Word. 3 Then they came, bringing a paralytic to Him, who had been picked up and was being carried by four men. 4 And when they could not get him to a place in front of Jesus because of the throng, they dug through the roof above Him; and when they had scooped out an opening, they let down the [thickly padded] quilt or mat upon which the paralyzed man lay.
These people were DESPERATE to have their friend healed! The man was desperate enough to allow himself to be carried and put in such a dangerous position! Can you even imagine the reaction of someone today if this were to happen? What would YOU do? Peter didn't call the police and Jesus didn't even scold them! What DID He say? Verse 5:
5 And when Jesus saw their faith [their confidence in God through Him], he said to the paralyzed man, Son, your sins are forgiven [you] and put away [that is, the penalty is remitted, the sense of guilt removed, and you are made upright and in right standing with God].
The religious leaders present questioned the authority of Jesus to forgive sins. How did He respond? Verses 10-12:
10 But that you may know positively and beyond a doubt that the Son of Man has right and authority and power on earth to forgive sins -- He said to the paralyzed man, 11 I say to you, arise, pick up and carry your sleeping pad or mat, and be going on home. 12 And he arose at once and picked up the sleeping pad or mat and went out before them all, so that they were all amazed and recognized and praised and thanked God, saying, We have never seen anything like this before.
If WE are to be "about our Father's business", then we have to become more flexible with our time, energy and resources! How would YOU react if someone broke into your house because they heard a man or woman of God was there who could minster healing and deliverance to them? If we are being continually led by the Spirit of God, we will be aware BEFORE they come and have the door open and a way made! Be prepared to have Holy Spirit interruptions in your life IF you desire to be used of God in this last great move of His Spirit on the earth! Be ready, willing, and able to be used by Him to reach others with the GREAT Good News of the Gospel! Amen! The LOST are waiting to hear that Good News, whether they know it yet or not! Let's DO IT! Here is Hillsong United with {"No Reason To Hide":
Shalom in Him!
