Matthew 9:1-8
After entering a boat, Jesus made the crossing, and came into his own town. And there people brought to him a paralytic lying on a stretcher. When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, "Courage, child, your sins are forgiven." At that, some of the scribes said to themselves, "This man is blaspheming." Jesus knew what they were thinking, and said, "Why do you harbor evil thoughts? Which is easier, to say, 'Your sins are forgiven,' or to say, 'Rise and walk'? But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins"- he then said to the paralytic, "Rise, pick up your stretcher, and go home." He rose and went home. When the crowds saw this they were struck with awe and glorified God who had given such authority to men.
Dawg's thought:
Today's prayer intention is for Kristen Colson, who was struck by a car as she was jogging. Her scheduled operation is tomorrow.
What is life like without Our Lord? I think that the paralyzed man offers a glimpse into what life is like.
Looking at the three Theological virtues, without God, where would you place your faith, hope and love? Would you place your faith in a specific talent you have? Would you place your hope in a relationship? Would you place your love in a job?
When I think about all the idols we can fashion, it sounds like it would be paralyzing. Paralyzing in the pursuit. Paralyzing when we find out that there really was no fulfillment in the idol we placed our faith, hope and love in.
So, to all of us who have fallen for a false idol (myself included), Jesus wants us forgive us of our sins. He wants us to be healed.
If you have been paralyzed by an idol in your life, receive the sacrament of reconciliation so that you can be freed from the paralyzing burden in your life. Be free, brothers and sisters, so that God may be glorified in you. Take care and God Bless.
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