**This story from the Gospel of Mark demonstrates a deep, committed level of courageous faith. **Jesus was preaching in a household. There was a paralyzed man who was lowered through the roof of a house and who was instantly healed as Jesus uttered the words, "Go and sin no more."

I am certain that this man who couldn't walk did indeed have faith, but my attention is always drawn to the friends that dared to lower him through the roof.

Not only was it an act of sacrificial love and committed friendship, but it was also an act of courageous faith. We all need community. We all need to be surrounded by people who will help us carry our mat, who will believe in us, and who will fight for our cause.

This man would not have been able to gain access to Jesus had it not been for his dear friends who did not see the crowd as an insurmountable obstacle. These friends knew that a miracle was possible if they could just get their friend close enough to see and touch Jesus.

Who are the people in your life who will help you carry your burden? Who can you help out today? Is there someone in your life who needs to gain access to the Son of God through you?

Dear Jesus, who are the people in my life who need my help? Please grant me the courage that I lack so I can reach out to the one who needs you? Amen.

TAKE ACTION

Help to carry someone to Jesus this week.

Consider pointing the way to Jesus by becoming an online mentor.



Tags: courage
Photo Credit: Teddy Kelley