Your sins are forgiven.
—Mark 2:5
Word on the street was that Jesus was back in town and that he was healing people. So, four compassionate friends loaded their paraplegic pal on a stretcher, and off they went.
They wanted Jesus to heal their friend. Jesus would do that, but first he had business to take care of with the victim. Knowing what he needed most, he said to him, “Take heart, son; your sins are forgiven.”
After that came physical healing: “Get up, take your mat and go home.” He came lying on a stretcher and skipped off carrying it. Forgiven. Healed.
What’s bugging you? Bitterness? Guilt? Fear? Worry? Addiction? Relationships?
Before your hurt can be healed, Jesus has business to take care of with you. First, get your relationship with him right. Then, you’ll be on the road to recovery.
First, forgiveness. Then, healing.