Daily Reading: John 5
Scripture Focus: When Jesus saw him lying there and knew that he had already been there a long time, he said to him, “Do you want to be healed?” The sick man answered him, “Sir, I have no one..." (John 5.6-7)
Devotional Thought: Have you ever found yourself surrounded by people yet feeling all alone? It's not a good feeling, is it? That's what the sick man felt like as he laid on his mat near the pool of Bethesda. The place was packed, but his woeful testimony was, "I have no one."
That changed when Jesus arrived! Jesus took a particular interest in the man's situation. He...
Saw him: In the midst of the crowd, Jesus picked him out. With all the other needs around, Jesus was able to see this man and his specific need.
Knew him: Jesus cared enough about the man to take his past into account. Instead of applying a 'one-size-fits-all' solution, Jesus recognized the unique circumstances that brought him to his present condition.
Spoke to him: In speaking to the man, Jesus not only recognized his need, but he also made the man a part of the solution. He asked the man a painful question, "Do you want to be healed?" Behind that question there is the sense that the man had to get to the place where he wanted healed more than he wanted pitied.
Healed him: Jesus must have been satisfied with the man's answer - vague as it was - for he told the man to get up and walk. The smallest faith was rewarded with the biggest miracle!
How about you today? Are you feeling helpless and alone? You're not! You have someone. Jesus has arrived, and he has taken a particular interest in you. May you hear words of hope and healing today.
Prayer: Jesus, thank you that you take note of my situation. Thank you that my situation is not too difficult for you. While I may have no one else, I believe that I have you. Help me to want you more than I want pity. Amen.
Psalm of the Day: 8 Oh, taste and see that the LORD is good! Blessed is the man who takes refuge in him! 9 Oh, fear the LORD, you his saints, for those who fear him have no lack! 10 The young lions suffer want and hunger; but those who seek the LORD lack no good thing. 11 Come, O children, listen to me; I will teach you the fear of the LORD. 12 What man is there who desires life and loves many days, that he may see good? 13 Keep your tongue from evil and your lips from speaking deceit. 14 Turn away from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it. (Psalms 34:8-14)
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