May 7

Morning

Aware of this, Jesus withdrew from that place. Large crowds followed Him, and He healed them all, — Matt 12:15 BSB

What a tremendous sight of suffering must have met the eyes of Jesus during His time on earth! Yet we never read that He was repelled or disgusted. Instead, He patiently cared for each person who came to Him. The variety of diseases He encountered must have been staggering: from fever to dropsy, from paralysis to madness, from leprosy to blindness. Yet He was ready to confront each form of suffering, and He triumphed over it all. No matter where the affliction came from, Jesus quenched its power. The heat of fever, the corruption of leprosy, the darkness of blindness—all fled at His command. In every corner, He was victorious, and the captives He delivered paid Him homage. He came, He saw, He conquered, and this is still true today.

This very morning, no matter what my condition might be, the beloved Physician can heal me. And whatever the state of those I lift up in prayer today, I can have hope in Jesus’ power to heal them of their sins.

For my child, my friend, my dearest loved one, I can hope, because the healing power of my Lord is more than enough. And for myself, no matter how hard the struggle against sin and weakness may be, I can still be encouraged. The same Jesus who walked through the hospitals of earth still dispenses grace and performs wonders today. Let me go to Him in faith and thank Him for His spiritual cures, which bring Him the most glory. He healed us by taking our sicknesses upon Himself. “By His stripes, we are healed.” The Church on earth is filled with souls healed by our beloved Physician, and the inhabitants of heaven testify that “He healed them all.” So, my soul, spread the news of His grace, making His name known as an everlasting sign that will never be cut off.

Evening

Then Jesus told him, “Get up, pick up your mat, and walk.” — John 5:8 BSB

Like many others, the paralyzed man by the pool of Bethesda had been waiting for a miracle, watching for a sign. He had waited long and wearily, hoping for the angel to come, but either the angel never came, or it never came for him. Yet, believing that this was his only chance for healing, he waited and watched, unaware that One stood nearby whose word could heal him instantly.

Many people today find themselves in a similar situation. They wait for a special feeling, a sudden impression, or some heavenly vision, all in vain. They hope for a miracle, but they wait for nothing. Even though miracles do sometimes happen, they are rare, and no one should rely on them.

It is tragic to think that tens of thousands are waiting for salvation through religious rituals, vows, and resolutions, but they wait in vain. Meanwhile, they overlook the Savior who is present with them, ready to heal. He calls out, “Look to Me and be saved,” but they prefer to wait for a miracle. Trusting in Him is the sure path to every blessing, for He is worthy of our complete trust. Yet unbelief leads them to choose the cold porches of Bethesda over the warm embrace of His love.

O Lord, look with compassion upon the many who are waiting in this state tonight. Forgive the ways they have neglected Your power and call them with that sweet, irresistible voice to rise from the bed of despair, and in faith, take up their mat and walk. Lord, hear our prayer for them this evening. Before the new day dawns, may they look to You and live. Dear reader, is there a message in this for you?