Life

 

    Life is precious because it is a gift from God.  It is not always an easy gift.  It comes with unwanted, unexpected, and great events and choices.  Jesus showed us the way, so if you keep to his word it does become easier.  

    On the Sabbath, Jesus came across a man that had been an invalid his entire life, about 38 years.  He was lying near the Bethesda pool which was infamous for it's healing powers. (There were always blind, lame, and paralyzed people around that pool.)  This invalid man was so close, but he had no way of getting into the poor of water. He did not have family or friends around to help him in his need.  

     Jesus looked at him and saw immediately what his life was like.  He saw the pain of the rejection and suffering had on the man.  Jesus saw his heart and took mercy into his hands.  He helped him when no one else would.  He told the man to get up, take his mat, and walk and sin no more.  The invalid was able to walk immediately.  He no longer had to wait upon mercy or pity of other people.  He was able to go live a full life.  He was cured.  

    He had been considered a sinner because the people believed that God would not make anyone a cripple if they were not a sinner.  Maybe since he was born that way, the shame fell on his parents, but Jesus took all the shame away.

    Jesus never gave his name.  Once he had done his job, he slipped into the crowd not seeking any attention.  Jesus saw the man again in God's House.  The Pharisees were convinced that Jesus had sinned because he "worked" on the Sabbath by healing a man that needed mercy and the authority that he gave himself.  Jesus also caused the healed man "to sin" by having him pick up his mat.  The Jews considered that "work", so it was illegal on the Sabbath.  However, Jesus defended the man when he defended himself and the case was closed because they had nothing.

    We have it better today.  We know science.  We know of the depths of God's love for us.  We know that there are factors in life that are not caused by sin of a person.  They just are.  We can find the mercy that we need for our souls by really hearing God's Word (that includes allowing it life when you read it) and believing what you hear (or read).  It is the only way to have eternal life.  Knowing you have eternal life is the only way to really live a full life now.   

    When Jesus cast judgment it is just.  When things seem unfair in the world it is not because God doesn't care.  It is part of living in the fallen world.  Things will never be perfect  here and that includes you.  Focus on your relationship with Jesus and doing the work he calls you to do.  Leave the rest to him.  He has other people to work too.  Your life is a testimony.  The question is to what?  Are you a testimony faith in God or self-honor?  Do you live a life that honors God or a life that will bring judgment?

John 5