As we look at the ministry of Jesus, we learn that Jesus is many things: Prophet, Teacher, Messiah, and Son of God. He is also a healer.
When He encounters someone who is sick – struggling with body, mind, or spirit, Jesus responds with compassion to restore the person to health. Often he will ask the person: “Do you want to be healed?” At times He steps across barriers to bring healing:
Jesus healed a lame man on the Sabbath (John 5:2-12)
Jesus invited a tax collector to become a disciple (Matthew 9:9-13)
Jesus healed a woman who was ritually unclean with a flow of blood for 12 years (Mark 5:25-34)
After Jesus called Matthew, the tax collector, to come and follow Him, there was a dinner. Jesus sat with his disciples and many “tax collectors and sinners.” Pharisees criticized Jesus for his choice of dinner companions. He responded, “Those who are sick have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. Go and learn what this means, ‘I desire mercy, not sacrifice.’ For I have come to call not the righteous but sinners.” (Matthew 9:12-13)
Jesus entered Peter’s house and saw that his mother-in-law was ill with a fever. Jesus responded: “He touched her hand and the fever left her, and she got up and began to serve him.” (Matthew 8:14-15) Adam Hamilton, pastor of The United Methodist Church of the Resurrection writes about our call to continue the healing ministry of Jesus:
“Jesus’ own witness of sacrificial love and forgiveness, and his work to heal the sick and care for those in need, represent God’s ways and vision for us.”
Friends, as the Body of Christ, we are the hands and feet of Jesus. Let us continue to step forward with love, compassion, listening ears, and hands that lift, heal, and restore all who broken.
Peace,
Pastor Cathy Johns