H E A L I N G

John 5:8-9

When do you sense the real healing in a once injured knee, in the training room or while chasing a loose ball?  When does the confidence return, while looking at an x-ray or after making the difficult cut toward the basket?  I think you know.  So did Jesus.

In John’s Gospel at chapter 5 and verses 8 and 9 we read, “Jesus said to him, ‘Rise, take up your bed and walk.’  And immediately the man was made well, took up his bed, and walked.”

This man had been afflicted with his infirmity for 38 years!  Along comes Jesus and he says to get up.  Say what!?  He’s been lying here for 38 years! 

I wonder when his healing took place…while lying on the mat or when he made the effort to stand and walk?  I believe the latter.  That’s why Jesus said what He did.  It’s always a heart-check when we hear someone give us a command to do the seemingly impossible.  Do we trust or do we not?

In today’s game you must trust the Lord and your coaching staff when they say, “Rise, take up your sport, and compete like a champion.”  Whether you feel like one or not, you’re called to make the play.  That’s my challenge to you as well.  Play like a champion today!

Bible Reading Plan:
John 5:15-26
I Peter 1:17-25
Ecclesiastes 12