Be set free! (2)

Yesterday, we mentioned Jesus freeing a man trapped in paralysis (see Mark 2:1-12). Today, we look at what helped the man get to the point where he could be healed. This story teaches us a lot about being open and vulnerable about our lives.

It took four friends to carry the paralysed man to Jesus. He couldn't have got there on his own. Parallel: sometimes we really need people's help to understand that the truth that there's a God who cares. Sometimes, we need to be the one carrying someone else. That's why we need others. But it's also why we have to be real with each other, about the times when it feels like we're trapped, unable to escape.

Paul tells us to 'carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfil the law of Christ' (Galatians 6:2 NIV). Helping each other is a part of living like Jesus wants us to, and it has real power. No matter how strong we try to be, we grow in strength when we allow ourselves to be vulnerable with each other. Only when we share our burdens, are we in a place to help or get help.



So what now? Call or meet with someone important to you. Talk about things you care about. Pray together. Show that person that they matter to you. Open up to get the love and help you need. Or ask them where they need support.





— SCRIPTURE —

'Carry each other's burdens.' Galatians 6:2 NIV
— SOULFOOD —

Isa 26-29, John 7:1-13, Ps 104:1-23, Pro 28:5-8