READ: MARK 2:1-12; ROMANS 5:6-8; 1 JOHN 4:19

Two teenagers in Tennessee risked their lives to save an unaccompanied toddler who ran toward a busy highway. With an oncoming truck barreling toward them, the teens snatched up the toddler just in time. On another occasion, two other teens came to the rescue of a capsized boat in the Florida Keys, saving six people—including a four-year-old, and a three-month-old baby. What do these stories have in common? Each time, the teens saw something and believed they could help, so they acted on that belief.

They’re not the only ones who have acted on what they believed. Back in Jesus’s day, four men had a friend who had a tremendous need. They heard Jesus was in town and knew He was the one who could help their friend. So, they carried their friend—who was paralyzed—to Jesus because they believed He could make the difference in his life.

When they arrived at the home where Jesus was preaching, there was no more room. Not even at the door to stand and listen. So, they went up to the roof. After digging a hole, they lowered their friend using the mat he was lying on. These men acted on their belief that Jesus could heal him. Mark 2:5 says, “When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralyzed man, ‘Son, your sins are forgiven.’” Jesus went on to tell him to get up, carry his mat, and walk home— which he did! “This amazed everyone and they praised God” (Mark 2:12)!

Maybe someday you will jump in and save someone like the teens in those news stories. But even today, there are probably people around you who need an encounter with Jesus. Could you be like the four friends whose faith compelled them to bring their friend to the only one who could truly help him? Maybe you could pray for them, or even talk to them about Jesus or invite them to come to a church event with you. Or maybe you could show them kindness by helping with a need they have or just showing that you care. Trust Jesus to work through you, and watch what happens. • Deborah del Villar

• Like the man who was paralyzed, we are all in desperate need of Jesus every moment of our lives. That’s why He came to die on the cross and rise again to save us from sin and death—because He loves us and wants to help us! What are some practical ways you could step out in faith and show others, both those who know Jesus already and those who don’t know Him yet, the same love that Jesus showed you? (Galatians 6:10; 1 John 4:19)

When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralyzed man, “Son, your sins are forgiven.” Mark 2:5 (NIV)