October 8

 
Matthew 8; Mark 2
The story of the paralytic and his friends has always impressed me with its opening into the heart of Jesus. Here are some young men who are so determined to reach the one person their friend feels can help him, that they actually dig a hole in the roof so they can get to the Lord! Jesus is so touched by their faith that He immediately offers the greatest gift of all -- He forgives the young man's sins! The healing of his body only came to demonstrate to the unbelievers that He had the power to forgive sins. In this story we find the heart of God, and it isn't in our physical circumstances. He is only concerned with our spiritual health; that which will place us into an eternal relationship with Him.