Lectio
“And behold, some men were carrying in the bed of a man who was paralyzed. And they sought a way to bring him in, and to place him before him. And not finding a way by which they might bring him in, because of the crowd, they climbed up to the roof, and they let him down through the roof tiles with his bed, into their midst, in front of Jesus. And when he saw his faith, he said, “Man, your sins are forgiven you.” And the scribes and Pharisees began to think, saying: “Who is this, who is speaking blasphemies? Who is able to forgive sins, except God alone?” But when Jesus realized their thoughts, responding, he said to them: “What are you thinking in your hearts? Which is easier to say: ‘Your sins are forgiven you,’ or to say, ‘Rise up and walk?’ But so that you may know that the Son of man has authority on earth to forgive sins,” he said to the paralytic, “I say to you to: Rise up, take up your bed, and go into your house.” And at once, rising up in their sight, he took up the bed on which he was lying, and he went away to his own house, magnifying God.” (Luke 5:18-25)
Take note of the actions and words of both Jesus and the paralytic’s friends. Focus on the themes of faith, forgiveness, and healing.
Meditatio
Meditate on the determination and faith of the men who brought the paralytic to Jesus. Meditate on Jesus’ authority to forgive sins and heal. How do these verses speak to your own need for spiritual and physical healing? Are there barriers in your life that need to be overcome by faith?
Oratio
Sweet Lord Jesus, strengthen my faith to trust in Your power to heal and forgive. Help me to bring others to You, even when obstacles arise. Grant me the grace to rise above my weaknesses and to walk in Your light. Amen.
Contemplatio
Envision Christ saying to you: “Your sins are forgiven. Rise up and walk.” Let His healing words bring peace and restoration to your soul.
Actio
Take a step of faith to bring someone closer to our Lord Jesus Christ. This could be through prayer, an encouraging word, or a simple act of kindness. Trust that the Lord can work miracles through your faith and efforts.
