I’m always surprised by Jesus’ question to the man who had been sick for 38 years. That’s a very long time to be suffering. After that much time had passed, the man may have become accustomed to his pain and disability. To be healed would have been too frightening to imagine. What would he do if he were actually healed? Did he truly believe the bubbling water was the answer? It was easier to stay in denial.
Then we see how the man responded to Jesus’ question. He made excuses. In his words, “I can’t.” That didn’t answer Jesus’ question at all. Yet Jesus’ compassion for the man was great, and Jesus immediately healed him.
All Jesus had to say was “Stand up, pick up your mat, and walk!” Jesus had to know it was the Sabbath and that his actions would ruffle some feathers. Jesus was asking this man to “work” on the Sabbath, but the man didn’t seem to care. His obedience and trust were great when he did exactly what Jesus said. No more excuses.
The religious leaders were extremely serious about keeping the Sabbath holy. Unfortunately, there were many well-intentioned, man-made laws attached to God’s command about Sabbath rest that distracted them. Furthermore, they didn’t realize that Jesus was God. If God deemed it all right to heal on the Sabbath, it was all right to heal. Jesus was very clear on the whole issue of breaking the Sabbath. “My Father is always working, and so am I.” To say the leaders were annoyed and upset is an understatement.
When I think of this whole scene playing out, I can’t help but rejoice with the man who now stands, literally, healed and set free from his lifelong prison of disability. I wonder what he did next. Did he listen to Jesus’ warning to stop sinning? What sins do you think Jesus may have been referring to?
We can find ourselves in this story in terms of being held back from something we would like to do. What is that for you? Do you use excuses for why you can’t succeed? Have you given up even trying? Imagine that Jesus was standing by your side, asking you what you wanted. What would you say to him? What changes do you need to make to allow Jesus to help you?
What spoke to you in this reading? Reflect on that and start a conversation with God.
Let’s pray. Father, thank you for standing alongside me every moment of my life. Forgive me for those times when I have been lost or made excuses for not following my dreams or seeking your will for my life. Help me to see clearly your direction and keep my feet from leading me into sinful behaviors. Keep me on the path toward righteousness and salvation. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
