Mark 2:1-12
When Jesus returned to Capernaum after some days, it became known that he was at home. Many gathered together so that there was no longer room for them, not even around the door, and he preached the word to them. They came bringing to him a paralytic carried by four men. Unable to get near Jesus because of the crowd, they opened up the roof above him. After they had broken through, they let down the mat on which the paralytic was lying. When Jesus saw their faith, he said to him, "Child, your sins are forgiven." Now some of the scribes were sitting there asking themselves, "Why does this man speak that way? He is blaspheming. Who but God alone can forgive sins?" Jesus immediately knew in his mind what they were thinking to themselves, so he said, "Why are you thinking such things in your hearts? Which is easier, to say to the paralytic, 'Your sins are forgiven,' or to say, 'Rise, pick up your mat and walk'? But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority to forgive sins on earth" -he said to the paralytic, "I say to you, rise, pick up your mat, and go home." He rose, picked up his mat at once, and went away in the sight of everyone. They were all astounded and glorified God, saying, "We have never seen anything like this."
Dawg's thought:
Today's prayer intention is for Dawn Marie, who will testify today in a case regarding the death of her son.
I'm in a songwriting group that is starting up, and today's reading is the Gospel reading from the week that I had. So, when I saw today's reading, I was pleasantly surprised.
Of course, not as surprised as scribes who heard Jesus' words.
Jesus addresses an ailment that we all have: sin. Through Him, we can be restored to grace. We may have may other things in our lives that we want to be better. With the new year upon us, there are many who have made New Year's resolutions to become better through losing weight or quitting an unhealthy habit. It would be great if Jesus could make my weight disappear, miraculously cure those who are addicted to smoking... and so on. Jesus wants to heal your soul, and that is the grace we all need to be renewed and restored. Take care and God Bless.
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