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Take Your Mat and Go

I recently heard an inspiring teaching on a passage of Scripture found in the book of Luke. Perhaps it will encourage you, too. It’s the story of a paralyzed man who had been brought to Jesus by his friends.

Because there was such a large crowd gathered around Jesus that day, entering through the roof seemed to be their only plausible point of entry. They were desperate to reach Jesus, knowing He had the power to heal their friend. Apparently, Jesus loved their enthusiasm as well as their willingness to think outside the box. “When Jesus saw their faith, he said, ‘Friend, your sins are forgiven.’” (Luke 5:20)

It may seem like a strange declaration for Jesus to announce that his sins were forgiven, especially since the man was hoping to walk, but this passage expresses one of the most amazing truths about God. He can do immeasurably more that all we can ask or even imagine (Ephesians 3:20).

Like the man on the mat, you and I might think we know what we need; but through our own encounter with Jesus, we discover that, just like the paralyzed man, our deepest need is not physical healing, but spiritual cleansing.

“Then, “[Jesus] said to the paralyzed man, “I tell you, get up, take your mat and go home.” Immediately he stood up in front of them, took what he had been lying on and went home praising God. Everyone was amazed and gave praise to God. They were filled with awe and said, “We have seen remarkable things today” (Luke 5:24-26).

There is another beautiful truth in what Jesus says to the paralyzed man, “Get up, take your mat, and go home.” The mat was the man’s connection to his old way of life; it was something the man could hold up as a visual aid to demonstrate what Jesus had done for him. He could say, “This is what my life used to look like, but now, look at me! Look how my life has changed for the better! What Jesus did for me, He can do for you!”

By asking the man to take up his mat, Jesus was giving the paralyzed man the same commission that He gives to you and me today: Go, now, and minister to others. Show them the same love and mercy I have shown you.

What is your mat—your visual aid to prove how Jesus has transformed your life? Maybe you’re still waiting for your miracle. Don’t lose hope. Don’t give up. Seek Jesus with all your heart, and like the friends carrying the paralyzed man, be bold in your approach. And after you receive your miracle, remember to take up your mat and go. Your mat is now your ministry!

Personal Reflection

• In what ways can you relate with the paralyzed man?
• Which of your Christian friends might be willing to help you find healing through Jesus?
• Are you ready to experience an even deeper level of healing and freedom? Eyes Wide Open is a 10-week healing program that helps you do just that. CLICK HERE to learn more.

Prayer

Jesus, please surround me with the right people in my life who can help me stay rooted in my relationship with you. I know that true and lasting healing only comes through you. And Lord, when I am free and healed, help me “take up my mat” so that others see your healing power and are able to find freedom, too. Amen.