Lessons from Four Friends
“And they come unto him, bringing one sick of the palsy, which was borne of four. And when they could not come nigh unto him for the press, they uncovered the roof where he was: and when they had broken it up, they let down the bed wherein the sick of the palsy lay.”
Mark 2:3-4 (KJV)
We often focus on the man being healed and the conversation between Jesus and the Pharisees (verses 6-12). But there are lessons we can learn from the four friends as well.
- Whatever the differences between those four friends they teamed up and worked together to help someone else in great need.
- They had probably persevered over all terrains in their desire to get him the best help they could. They didn’t necessarily come via long windy roads, it may have been across country to take the shortest route as it would have been hard work carrying the man.
- With a friend presumably in each corner, they surrounded the man with their presence, their love and their encouragement.
- They persevered, even at the last hurdle when all their efforts seemed wasted because they couldn’t get anywhere near Jesus.
- They stood back from the limelight having played their part selflessly and humbly. Though I feel sure they joined the celebrations when the healed man walked out, v12.
So the lessons are for us, 1) Overcome differences to work together for the good of others especially those in need. 2) Persevere in aiming for the best for them. 3) Be a part of the surrounding people in need with company, love, encouragement etc. 4) Persevere even over hurdles. 5) Leave the other person to their moment in the limelight, but do join in the celebrations.
There are plenty of needy people to be helped in one way or another, but not enough friends willing to reach out and help them. Comforters and encouragers are needed, as are listening ears and helping hands for chores, and so the list goes on. We can all do something, including pray.
Prayer
Dear Father, we bring to You all those in desperate need and put them in Your hand, asking that you would attend to whatever those needs are. Please also help us to remember that we may well be the answer, or part of the answer, to our own prayers. You may be wishing to use us to help them. Thank You for hearing and answering our prayers.
Amen
Study by Ruth Edwards
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About the Author:
Ruth Edwards is actively involved in her Worldwide Church of God Bristol congregation, including editing Links, a church magazine for the congregations of the South West and South Wales area.
Local Congregation:
Worldwide Church of God Bristol
Emmersons Green Village Hall
Emmerson Way
EMMERSONS GREEN
South Gloucestershire
BS16 7AP
Meeting Time:
Saturday 11:30am
Local Congregational Contact:
Allan Frankcom
Email: jf007d9991@blueyonder.co.uk