Day – 59

Which is easier?

Read: Numbers 1, 2; Psalm 59; Mark 2:1-17

Scripture: Mark 2:6 Now some teachers of the law were sitting there, thinking to themselves, 7 “Why does this fellow talk like that? He’s blaspheming! Who can forgive sins but God alone?” 8 Immediately Jesus knew in his spirit that this was what they were thinking in their hearts, and he said to them, “Why are you thinking these things? 9 Which is easier: to say to this paralyzed man, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Get up, take your mat and walk’?

Observation: When Jesus healed the paralytic man, he saw the faith of the men who took efforts to bring the sick man before him. Interestingly, the Gospel does not say anything about whether the men or the paralytic man requested Jesus for healing. However, we read, "Jesus saw their faith." Not only that, he knew even the thoughts of the men who were sitting there. The teachers of the Law thought that Jesus was blaspheming God by saying that the paralyzed man's sins were forgiven. But, Jesus understood the real reason for the paralysis and said, “Son, your sins are forgiven.”

Not all sicknesses are caused by sins. However, as we see in the case of the paralyzed man, sins could cause sicknesses. Jesus is the best physician who understands the root cause of human disease. Whether it is physical or spiritual healing, Jesus does what exactly a person needs for healing. Through his question, “Which is easier,” Jesus told the teachers of the Law about his divinity. i.e., he was more than a miracle worker.

Application: Jesus sees my faith when I do something for others who need his touch. He knows even my thoughts! Whenever I think of the hindrances to bringing people before Jesus, I should remember what the paralyzed man's friends did for him. They made an opening by doing something unusual. I must understand that Jesus is more concerned with a person's spiritual well-being than physical healing. I should do what Jesus wants me to do. That will be easier than anything else, and God will be glorified through me.

Prayer: Jesus, thank you for helping me to understand your power and will. You have the power to heal and forgive sins. Lord, help me overcome any mental barriers that could prevent me from coming before you and bringing people to you. Helping me is easier for you! Amen.

✍️: Arputharaj Samuel
📕: Quiet Time Companion
🗓️  Day – 59