Perhaps you have heard the phrase "Faith can move mountains." I've always marvelled at that phrase. I've seen many mountains. I've visited Kilimanjaro in Africa and lived near the Rockies, and the Sierra Nevada, in the western United States. The mountains are huge. They are ancient geological barriers that can weather any storm. They are solid and enduring, strong, and unyielding.
Scripture says faith in Jesus is even stronger and bigger. The faith of the friends in today's verse, is strong enough to tear apart a roof to bring their paralyzed friend to Jesus - because they had confidence he could heal their friend. Jesus is so moved by their faith that he does what they want him to do and he doesn't even criticize them for damaging the roof! Because people are more important than buildings. The amazing thing is that Jesus does even more than they hoped. He forgives the man's sins as well as healing him from paralysis. In this way, the friends' faith become an example to everyone there who has come to see Jesus.
Today, faith can move people to do incredible things. In response, Jesus can make huge impacts in this world, including moving mountains in our lives. He can heal and forgive. He can change the heart of an individual or the hearts of an entire group of people (which could be more difficult than moving a mountain). This is all because of Christ's ability to see faith in anyone who comes to him, whether they walk or are carried by their friends.
When Jesus saw their faith, he said, "Friend, your sins are forgiven." Luke 5:20.
Let's Pray
Yahweh, thank you for the gift of faith. Father, please build faith inside of me so I can see how you call me to act, trusting me to make changes for good in this world. God may I never doubt your ability to move the mountains in my life. In Jesus's name, Amen.