Minimum Cost
Scripture Reading — Luke 5:17-26
They went up on the roof and lowered him on his mat through the tiles into the … crowd, right in front of Jesus.
Luke 5:19
If there is someone you can call even at 3:00 o’clock in the morning, that person is a good friend. The friends of the paralyzed man in this story were good friend like that.
When people brought their sick loved ones to Jesus, there were sometimes practical challenges to find a way into Jesus’ presence. But the friends of this man did not give up. They carried their friend up on the roof, tore through the roof materials, and carefully lowered him down in front of Jesus.
For their sick friend, they were willing to make sacrifices. Tearing apart the roof would have created quite a mess. Someone would have to pay for the reconstruction. No doubt the owner of the house would have a few words to say about that! But that was the price of a miracle. For the needs of their friend, these men were willing to go the extra distance.
These men also had faith that Jesus could heal their dear friend. Jesus saw and praised the faith of these friends and the sick man, and he healed the man just as they believed he would.
The intense confidence that these friends had in Jesus is a model for us today. With what attitude do we approach Christ? Do we give up when faced with a difficult situation? Those who remain confident in Jesus will witness the strength of their Savior to do amazing things.
Lord, forgive us for our fears and hesitation when we face hard times. Please help us to know that in Jesus we can meet any challenge. In his name we pray. Amen.
About the author — Jang Ho Park
Jang Ho Park is a pastor in Tacoma, Washington. He and his wife, Jong Boon, have two sons.
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