Matthew 9:5-7   ⁵ For which is easier, to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Stand up and walk’?  ⁶ But so that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins”– he then said to the paralytic– “Stand up, take your bed and go to your home.”  ⁷ And he stood up and went to his home.

When we are paralyzed we cannot move. We are stuck in one place and we cannot find a way out.

Many things paralyze us: fear, worry, depression, anxiety, anger, resentment, and hatred, to name a few. These paralyzers lead to poor choices, broken relationships, isolation, and other behaviors that Jesus calls sins.

But Jesus offers us the ability to move forward in wholeness and heath. Jesus heals us from the emotions and attitudes that lead us to make bad decisions. Jesus’ forgiveness frees us from the consequences of these behaviors and leads us on the path of reconciliation, reparation, and recuperation.

We no longer need to be paralyzed. We can put our lives in Christ’s hands, receive forgiveness and healing. We are then free to stand up and walk.

Lord, heal us of those things that paralyze us. Forgive us of those things that keep us from a full relationship with you and others. Help us to stand up, whole and healthy, and walk in faith. Amen.