Living Through The Cross "Who Told You To...?" March 4, 2008

“Do you want to get well?” (vs. 7)   Some questions just tend to upset us when we think that the answer is obvious.   Certainly, the disabled man did not expect this question from Jesus.   After all, did not his haggard face, defeated demeanor or faint sighs express his desire to be made whole?

To the annoying question, the ailing disappointed man explained why he had been lying there in that same spot, unhealed for so long.   Without acknowledging the past failures or the current resources the man had just offered, Jesus simply gave him a clear, directive: “Pick up your mat and walk.”   Was it too much for a man who had just met Jesus to make his move immediately?

How would we disciples react today to similar “Do you want…?” questions as Jesus views our churches (our growth, laity-involvement or young adult presence)?   Would we protest: ‘We need more help…we tried this and that…we make announcements but they don’t come”?   This Lenten season, will we give up explaining away our challenges by reasoning or recounting efforts? (vs. 8)   Will we forsake unbelief (vs. 14)?   Do we dare move now at Jesus’ command?   After all, don’t we know the one who has told us to get going?   Surely the “fellow” who told us to rise up is no stranger to us!   Can we dare to believe our Lord and Savior more than our histories or circumstances?

Prayer: “Dear God, may we be willing to believe you immediately and move at your command to victories we dare to anticipate, believing you beyond our past experiences and logic.”   Amen

Sis. Chequita Smith Owens - East Sixth Street Christian, Oklahoma City

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