Jesus Calls Us To Truth: Healing

Jesus walks up to a guy in an alcove and asks, “Do you want to get well?”

Sounds like the start to a comedian’s joke. But, healing is not light or easy. So, let’s not be naïve and pretend that it is. It’s hard. It is physically and emotionally difficult, no matter what the dilemma is. And unlike our invalid’s story in John 5, healing rarely happens “at once.”

Where does healing begin? It begins with Jesus’ compassion and graciousness. He is the perfect physician, whose heart surgery is always complete and comprehensive. The purpose of the surgery: remaking what is broken. In the passage from John 5, Jesus initiates the interaction with the invalid, and brings him to complete physical restoration. Later, Jesus offers the invalid spiritual restoration as well. Jesus’ healing is profound for those who accept it.

Let me tell you another story of healing.

A few years ago I was experiencing a painful season in my life. My journals reflect overwhelming fear, paralyzing hesitation, and seething anger at my situation. I wanted to trust the Lord that He could and would get me over it. But, I was scared of all that healing might bring. I feared the unknown shape of a healed life. I didn’t want to talk to friends, family or even a counselor. That would be too much to handle! My pain was Mt. Everest and I was too paralyzed to climb to base camp!

So I began with a small step. I called on Him. “Have mercy on me, Lord.”

Later, I was transparent with Jesus. “Lord, this situation stinks. I wish I weren’t in this place. Help me to trust You with this hurt.”

Then, “Lord, would You be gentle with me. My heart feels too tender for even Your touch. Take it slowly, Lord, at Your perfect pace.”

The Lord took great care with me, and over the course of months, after long conversations with Him, with friends, and with family, I have experienced my own miracle. I’m no more brave or courageous person than any other. I’m not filled with extra measures of faith or knowledge of God. Jesus and I put my hurt on the cross and it died a miraculous death.

Accept His invitation. Speak honestly to the One who is “the Truth” about your heart. He’ll meet you, too.