This

is one of several gospel stories in which we see people approach

Jesus in order to help a friend or loved one. So many people had

gathered that the house was full. Some were ­curious; some were

suspicious; some may even have come to stir up trouble. It was

“standing room only,” and the friends of the paralyzed man could

find no way in. Did no one see their need and offer to let them pass

through? Perhaps we have all been guilty of that—so focused on our

own interests that we can’t see the needs around us.

The

four friends refused to let their friend be overlooked. They decided

to lower him through the roof of the house to see Jesus. It had to be

an incredible group effort. Jesus saw it too, and he recognized the

depth of their faith in going so far to bring their friend to him.

Christians

have had many oppor­tunities to help others. When natural

disasters strike, for example, churches and Chris­tian

organizations have mobilized teams to go out and build or repair

homes, donate food and clothes, and provide funds where needed.

Perhaps you have helped in such ­efforts, or with community

development or medical clinics. There are needs everywhere!

Let’s

keep our eyes open to see people around us today who need help and

may also need to meet Jesus. They are precious to the Lord and well

worth our efforts.