So much of life is about timing, and much can be made of the timing of this miracle on a Sabbath. Another important aspect of timing is the timing of this miracle in the man's life. After the healing, Jesus reveals to the man that his condition is a result of his sin, and if he doesn't stop, his condition will be even worse than before he was healed. In other words, he receives Jesus' mercy even before he repents. Thus God's mercy is extended to him, and to us, not based on what we do but because of who Jesus is. What we do is meant to be a response to what Jesus does for us. That timing is everything!
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For Reflection:
Sickness often has nothing to do with our sin, but Jesus reveals that in this case, the man's condition was a direct result of his sin. But Jesus heals him first and confronts him about his sin only later.
- What do you make of the fact that Jesus healed the man before he confronted him?
- How might it affect your relationship with God to know that God extends grace to us before we have repented?
- Might God be inviting you to extend grace and kindness to others who have yet to acknowledge their sins against you?
