It Comes Down to What You Want...

The words of Jesus are specific. Today's gospel takes us to a place where the waters are stirred for a healing. The paralytic is asked in (John 5:6) "Do you want to be made well?" This is a strange question because it implies that we are responsible for what we get, if we but say the word. Is it really so simple? All we need to do is say so. The problem for most of us is indecision. We expect Jesus to make the choice for us, or for that matter, other's as well.

A short time ago we read about Jesus and his dealings with the centurion, who testifies in the gospel of Matthew, "but only speak a word, and my servant will be healed." Jesus said, (Matt 8:10) "Assuredly, I say to you, I have not found such great faith, not even in Israel." The faith of this man was thought comparable to worshiping pagan gods, as was the belief of many of the Romans. He didn't say my servant "might" or "may" be healed. He said "WILL" be healed.

Just say it! Like the Centurion, who at the foot of the cross, announced Jesus, to truly be the Son of God.

Jesus told us if we had but the faith of a mustard seed,(Matt 17:20)"you will say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it will move; and nothing will be impossible for you."

We are victims of indecision. We are afraid. Often we are seekers of change, but we don't know what we really want and are afraid to find out. We really can't be sure that change will be better for us. What will we have to leave behind? We do not have a firm conviction...

Time to step out of the boat and face the reality that was yours all along. The truth will set you free. Or could it be that you haven't received because Jesus knows your heart is not ready. Remember, he will give you your hearts desire, especially what we keep secretly, but never from Him.

The paralytic stepped out in faith, he really desired to be made well, irregardless of how that decision changed his life.

(Scripture references are taken from "The Orthodox Study Bible")