"And getting into a boat he crossed over and came to his own city. And behold, some people brought to him a paralytic, lying on a bed. And when Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, “Take heart, my son; your sins are forgiven.” And behold, some of the scribes said to themselves, “This man is blaspheming.” But Jesus, knowing their thoughts, said, “Why do you think evil in your hearts? For 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 bed and go home.” And he rose and went home. When the crowds saw it, they were afraid, and they glorified God, who had given such authority to men." - (Matthew 9:1-8 ESV)
What is it that you are waiting on Jesus for? A new job? Physical healing? A spouse? Emotional restoration? These things do matter to him. Jesus cares about any and all of our hurts and needs that we submit to his care, in fact. He invites us to cast our concerns upon him in order that he might make them his own. Jesus cares about our immediate and daily needs. But do you know what he cares about even more? That we would accept his forgiveness and embrace, and his restoration of us unto himself.
“Take heart, my son; your sins are forgiven.“ This was not the paralyzed man’s most obvious and pressing concern. This was not the need his friends had in mind when they brought him to Jesus. But it was the chance to speak a word of forgiveness - even more than healing - that Jesus leapt upon with joy. More than anything, our savior longs that we would fall into his arms and receive HIM before receiving all else FROM him.
Lord Jesus, thank you for your forgiveness, in light of which all of our lesser needs dim by comparison.
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