And they came, bringing to him a paralytic carried by four men.
– Mark 2:3

Do you have a friend who would do almost anything for you? Especially if you need healing, comfort or encouragement? Sometimes, just having someone to listen to you and encourage you with God’s Word and the assurance of His love, even when you are experiencing difficult circumstances, is such a blessing!*

In this passage from Mark, Jesus is teaching in a home that has a thatched roof like most homes at that time. Some men came, bringing a paralyzed man. They could not get to Jesus because of the crowd. And yet, they showed their extravagant love and care for this friend who was paralyzed by going to the top to plead for mercy for their friend. In fact, they went to the rooftop and made a hole in the roof where Jesus was teaching. They then lowered him down in front of Jesus.

Jesus recognized their incredible faith and said, “Son, your sins are forgiven.” This miracle of Jesus demonstrates His power to provide physical healing and spiritual forgiveness.

Where do you go when you are feeling desperate? Are you that friend that will demonstrate extravagant friendship? “God is our strength and our shield” (Psalm 28:7).

Prayer: Father, I thank you for friends who will encourage and provide Christian fellowship. I ask for strength that I can be that friend to others, showing your power within me.

*Stephen Ministry is a ministry in our church that have trained lay members who are willing to walk beside you in challenging times – grief, loneliness, divorce, hospitalization, disability, job loss, etc.

Daily Reading: Matthew 21

– Contributed by Vickie Petersen