In today's Gospel we hear the story of the man who had been paralyzed for thirty-eight years - unable to walk - move about - forced to beg for a living. Like others burdened with one illness - or another - he chose to lay by the pools at Bethesda - encouraged by stories that when the water bubbled up - moved by some sort of healing power - the first one to jump in the water would be healed. It is not known if anyone ever was healed - besides the natural fact that water cleanses - refreshes - it is possible that some minor issues may have been made better by the natural nature of water. When Jesus approached that specific man He did not automatically heal the man. First he approached - asked him - do you want to be healed? Only after Jesus heard his yes - did He tell the man - rise and get up - take your mat with you.
Even today many come to God - Jesus - expecting cures for any and all issues. They may be seeking physical - emotional - spiritual - financial - answers - often walking away - disappointed. Jesus is not some sort of vending machine that grants healing - answers - on demand. Before one can receive any answer from God - they have to first prepare their minds - hearts - approach in humility. One needs to approach with the heart of a true believer - leaving any attitude - expectation - behind - placing their wishes - desires respectfully at His feet. Very often what some ask for - not what they really need - God knows our hearts - needs - better than we know ourselves. As we continue our Lenten journey - we are reminded - again and again - do not cripple ourselves with worries - concerns that we cannot fix ourselves - rise up - leave those things behind - take up the hope that is in Jesus - in time you will receive your answer. God does answer all prayers - in His time.
Deacon Dale
