By Rae Lynn DeAngelis
“So [Jesus] said to the paralyzed man, “I tell you, get up, take your mat and go…” (Luke 5:24)
I recently heard an inspiring teaching on a passage of scripture found in the book of Luke. Perhaps it will encourage you too.
Luke chapter five tells the story of a paralyzed man who had been brought to Jesus by his friends. Because there was such a large crowd gathered around Jesus that day, entering through the roof seemed to be their only plausible point of entry. They were desperate to reach Jesus, knowing He had the power to heal their friend.
Apparently, Jesus loved their enthusiasm and willingness to think outside the box! “When Jesus saw their faith, he said, ‘Friend, your sins are forgiven.’” (Luke 5:20)
It may seem like a strange declaration for Jesus to announce, especially since the man was hoping to walk, but we learn through this passage one of the most amazing truths about God. He can do immeasurably more that all we can ask or even imagine (Ephesians 3:20).
Like the man on the mat, you and I might think we know what we need; but after an encounter with Jesus, we discover that our deepest need is not physical healing, but spiritual cleansing.
Then Jesus moved on to the next order of business.
“[Jesus] said to the paralyzed man, “I tell you, get up, take your mat and go home.” Immediately he stood up in front of them, took what he had been lying on and went home praising God. Everyone was amazed and gave praise to God. They were filled with awe and said, “We have seen remarkable things today.” (Luke 5:24-26)
There is a hidden truth in what Jesus says to the paralyzed man after he heals him, “Get up, take your mat, and go.”
The mat was the man’s connection to his old way of life; it was something the man could hold up and say, “This is what my life used to look like, but look where I am now! Look what Jesus has done for me! He can do the same for you!”
By asking the man to take up his mat, Jesus was giving the paralyzed man the same commission He gives you and me today: Go now, and minister to others. Show them the same love and mercy I have shown you.
What is your mat—your miracle? A redeemed marriage? Healed illness? Freedom from an addiction? Pregnancy after years of infertility?
Maybe you’re still waiting for your miracle. Don’t lose hope! Don’t give up! Seek Jesus with all your heart, and like the friends carrying the parlayed man to Jesus, be bold in your approach.
And after you receive your miracle, remember to take up your mat and go. Your mat is now your ministry!
For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you,” declares the Lord, “and will bring you back from captivity. (Jeremiah 29:11-14)
