March 9, 2023
And they come unto him, bringing one sick of the palsy, which was borne of four. And when they could not come nigh unto him for the press, they uncovered the roof where he was: and when they had broken it up, they let down the bed wherein the sick of the palsy lay. Mark 2:3-4
Four anonymous men have inspired multitudes to do all they can to help those in need. These men’s hearts were stirred to action because of this man’s poor condition and his need for help. Aware of Jesus Christ’s presence in the area and His amazing healing power, these four men concluded that Jesus Christ was the answer. Each grabbed a pole and carried the man to meet Jesus. This was an act of faith. They went believing Jesus had power to heal.
The crowd was large and the house overrun with people desperately waiting to get a glimpse of Jesus Christ or to hear a message from the Saviour. Several attempts were probably made to get by the mass of people and through the door. Perhaps other entrances were searched for and maybe the windows of the house were examined. All to no avail. The way in was blocked.
Many would have given up at this point, but not these men. Their friend needed help and they knew where he could find it. Undeterred, they came up with a unique and wonderful plan. The man was carried to the top of the house, a hole was made in the roof, and the four men lowered their friend into the house where he could meet Jesus Christ. What a moment that must have been!
Jesus Christ recognized this humble act of service and blessed all involved. There is much that can be learned from these four men.
- Selfless act – many will help others or give if there is something in return. These men had nothing to gain that day. They took their friend to Jesus because he needed help.
- Sacrificial act – it cost them time and energy to carry this man to the top of the house and lower him down inside. That is time and energy that could have been used elsewhere.
- Simple act – each man grabbed a pole, lifted their sick friend, and carried him to Jesus. In the grand scheme of things it was not much, but we find that there is no service too small when it comes to God’s work.
Praise God for friends like this. Are you a friend like this?
By faith these men took this ailing man to Jesus Christ, then saw him forgiven of his sin and healed of his illness. His soul and body were both taken care of that day.
Do you know somebody that needs to meet with Jesus? Are you willing to introduce others to Jesus Christ?