After forgiving the paralytic, Jesus said, “Arise, take up your bed, and go to your house.” And the man was healed. For where there is forgiveness of sins, there is also life and salvation. Beloved, this is true for you as well; today, through the Means of Grace, you receive the forgiveness of sins, yet you still may suffer from physical infirmities of one kind or another. Like the paralytic, you are in that moment between receiving forgiveness and experiencing bodily healing. Even so, be of good cheer, for the word arise is the same word used for Jesus’ resurrection from the dead. Just as He arose, so, too, shall you. The bodily healing that awaits you is the promise of the resurrection.
Readings:
Old Testament: Genesis 28:10-17
Epistle: Ephesians 4:22-28
Holy Gospel: Matthew 9:1-8
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