The story of the man at the pool of Bethesda should interest us not only because Jesus healed him, but also because of the nature of the interaction he had with Jesus.  This man had been impaired for 38 years, had somehow made his way to the porches at the pool, but couldn’t make it into the pool at the right time to be healed.  When Jesus approached him and asked him if he wanted to be well, the man responded, “I can’t, sir”.  Instead of noticing who Jesus was, the man focused on his own inadequacy and loneliness, and complained about others who pushed ahead to access what he desired most.  Maybe he had tried everything else before he made his way to the pool and now saw the stirring waters as his only option.  His view was limited and his experience, to date, was frustrating.

We need to broaden our understanding of who God is and what He can do.  Not falling and failing under the pressure of circumstances; not making excuses for our lack of progress; but consistently looking for Jesus in the midst of our challenges.  He’s there, always anticipating our needs and present with a ready, all-sufficient response.  We’ve been the man at the pool for far too long.  We’re not impotent, alone, or without help.  It’s time to ask for what we need, collect our beds and walk.

Live well,
Michele