Body and Soul

Another of Jesus' healings is of a man who is paralyzed (Matthew 9:1-8).  The man's friends brought him to Jesus on a mat.  Now we don't know how long the man had been paralyzed or why he was paralyzed.  Was he born that way or was he hurt in an accident?  How old is he?  Is he married?  We are not told.
  The encounter is a little strange because the first thing Jesus says to the man is, "Take heart, son; your sins are forgiven."  His friends didn't bring him there to have his sins forgiven; they brought him to be healed.  Evidently Jesus thought it more important to forgive his sins than to heal him physically (recall Matthew 5:27-30).  Nevertheless Jesus heals him physically also.  
  Jesus attends to the full person - body and soul.

  For reflection:  Jesus is interested in the whole person.  When I pray with someone for healing, am I listening to Holy Spirit for guidance about praying for the whole person?  Who have I seen in the last few days who needs prayer for healing?
  Let us pray.  Jesus, you set an example that is not easy to follow.  People don't bring friends to me for healing.  I have to be brave enough to step up and ask if they would like prayer.  Even though people seldom say "No", it still takes courage on my part.  Strengthen me with more courage, please.

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