We all know what it is like to have unmet expectations. You hope to get one thing, and you get another. Often, we feel as if we are getting less than what we asked for.
When the paralytic and his friends encountered Jesus, you have to imagine that they initially felt let down when Jesus opened His mouth: “Friend, your sins are forgiven” (Luke 5:20). While that is a beautiful sentiment, and who doesn’t know that they have sinned in need of forgiveness, but I imagine the guy let down on a stretcher was not coming for spiritual peace; he was looking for physical healing.
While the initial response may have been disheartening, it was infuriating to others in the room. The religious leaders understood that Jesus was claiming to have the authority to do things that no man should ever claim the right to perform. But that’s the point—Jesus was no ordinary man! His words and actions revealed that “the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins” (Luke 5:24).
21 Then the scribes and the Pharisees began to think to themselves, “Who is this man who speaks blasphemies? Who can forgive sins but God alone?”
22 But perceiving their thoughts, Jesus replied to them, “Why are you thinking this in your hearts? 23 Which is easier: to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Get up and walk’? 24 But so that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins”—he told the paralyzed man, “I tell you: Get up, take your stretcher, and go home.”
25 Immediately he got up before them, picked up what he had been lying on, and went home glorifying God. 26 Then everyone was astounded, and they were giving glory to God. And they were filled with awe and said, “We have seen incredible things today.”
Luke 5:21-26
Before Jesus dealt with this man’s physical condition, He addressed His spiritual need. Unbeknownst to him, the paralytic needed forgiveness more than healing, and Jesus could provide both. He offered the man forgiveness for his sins, but he also provided healing so that he could leave on his own two feet to testify about what had just happened.
You might need to be reminded today that Jesus is willing and able to forgive your sins. You have not put Him off. He is not hindered by how many sins are in your past, and He is not intimidated by your situation that He can’t help you. He knows all about your sins, and He offers you forgiveness. He knows all about your limitations and gives you a hand-up.
Jesus is willing and able to forgive you for your sins. If you want to know the heart of our Heavenly Father, look at the way His Son engaged this desperate man and marvel at His character, which is consistent for us today.
Travis Agnew serves as the Lead Pastor of Rocky Creek Church in Greenville, SC. His most recent book is Just (About) Married.
