Excuses! Excuses?

Today's Reading:
AM - Psalm 72
PM - Psalm 119: 73-96
Gospel - John 5:1-18

For reflection: What is the closest Jesus has come to saying to you, "Get up! Pick up your mat and walk!"

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The pool of Bethesda could have been the first account of mismanaged health care systems.  People with known ailments would wait endlessly for an opportunity to be healed.  So for those of us fed up with current healthcare red tape and legalism, this is nothing new.  In those days there was a man who had been ill for thirty-eight years.  He was lying by the pool waiting for an opportunity to be the first in the water.  When Jesus saw him he asked, “Do you wish to get well?”  In response the man doesn’t answer “yes." Instead he gives an account of how he has no one to lower him into the pool.

Imagine the frustration of the Savior walking among the people.  All He wanted was to bring healing.  And all He faced was health care red tape.  The Son of God is in the house, and everybody wants to quote Him the rule book.  He knows the rule book.  He was there when it was written.  Still He showed love and compassion to a sick man, who was consumed with customs of his people, more than being healed; and to the religious leaders who were more focused on laws and traditions, than a man’s well being.

Listen closely and you can hear His footsteps today.  Here comes the Master yet again.  This time He is asking these questions:  Are you ready for what’s NEXT?  Isn’t it time you GET REAL?  Do you want to fill the EMPTY CHAIR? 

Stop!!! Don’t do it! 

You almost answered with excuses of red tape. You started to quote the rule book of customs and traditions to the author of the universe.  Step back.  Reach down.  Pick up your pallet. Now, start walking.

No need to answer, your steps will say it all.

- Ross Brashear