Power to Forgive:
Which is Easier? – Part 1

Scripture Reading: Matthew 9:2-8

Key Verse: Matthew 9:5

Which is easier: to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Get up and walk’?

Imagine yourself a paralytic.  You are unable to move about or care for yourself; totally dependent on others to help you.  Then imagine coming face to face with Jesus.  You are one touch away from having the rest of your life changed forever.  If Jesus will heal you, you will finally walk, run and free yourself of constant care by others.  As you anticipate Jesus’ words, you look expectantly into His eyes.

When Jesus spoke, I have a feeling that this poor paralytic was devastated.  Jesus’ first words to him: “Take heart, son; your sins are forgiven.”  The angels in heaven were rejoicing, but they were alone in their celebration.  This paralytic and all those standing close enough to hear Jesus were stunned and disappointed.  The religious leaders were indignant that Jesus would presume that He could forgive sins.

We humans really are “little children” as we relate to our heavenly Father.  We can only see the immediate and want the gratification of the moment.  This man just received eternal life, but never gave Jesus a simple thank you.  He wanted to be healed of the physical problem, rather than the heart problem.

Forgiveness, as we can see from our perspective, was so much better.  In a few short years this man will walk into eternity.  Had Jesus only healed him physically, he would be lost eternally.  Praise God for His power to forgive!  (More tomorrow.)

Father, thank you for forgiving my sins and giving me eternal life.  That is enough to praise you forever!  In Jesus’ Name, Amen.