Celebrate!Sample

Healing and Forgiveness While not all affliction is the result of a specific sin, in this case sin was the cause, for Jesus’ first words were, “Your sins are forgiven you.” In many cases prayer for healing should begin with confession of sin and repentance (James 5:16; 1 John 1:8, 9). Jesus’ linking of healing with forgiveness is also evidence that human wholeness at every point of need is His concern. Obviously, forgiveness of sins is our greater need, but Jesus affirmed His concern for every part of our being when He taught, “The Spirit of the Lord … has anointed Me to preach the gospel to the poor (salvation) … to heal the brokenhearted (emotional wholeness) … to proclaim liberty to the captives (freedom) and recovery of sight to the blind (healing)” (Luke 4:18). Jesus is fully able to meet your need—spirit, soul, and body. Where is His touch needed in your life today?