Jesus Makes Himself Available to All
Rev. Charles Oppong-Poku | March 18, 2024 | John 5:1-4
KEY VERSE:
Here a great number of disabled people used to lie—the blind, the lame, the paralysed. John 5:3 (NIV)
MESSAGE: One of the recurring themes in John's Gospel is Jesus' visits to Jerusalem during significant feasts, offering God's love and grace to the people. John 5:1-4 recounts an encounter at the Pool of Bethesda, where Jesus demonstrated His willingness to engage with suffering individuals, offering hope and healing.
Bethesda means, "house of grace and mercy". It was somewhat like a public infirmary and presented a perfect description of humanity, who due to the Fall, has become "impotent and helpless to save himself”. But Jesus, the Prince of Peace came to Bethesda, the place that legend had made a place of healing, where the impotent and helpless have come to seek grace and mercy. Earthly princes on entering a city would go to the house of the great and rich, but the feet of the Prince of Peace immediately turned to the abode of misery and suffering. As is His custom, Jesus positions Himself where Ordinary individuals can reach him. Jesus makes God available to everyone.
The story highlights Jesus' availability in the midst of crowded and busy places. Despite the distractions and the pressing needs of others, Jesus made Himself accessible to the paralysed man, showing that His attention is focused on each individual. Jesus is always available and actively seeks out those needing healing and restoration. Jesus embodies the essence of his Jewish heritage, infusing it with vitality and authenticity. He transcends mere legend, tradition, and even the significance of the feasts, emerging as the ultimate healer.
FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Jesus the Prince of Peace is readily available and accessible, always willing to come to those who are yearning for His grace and mercy. Consider the barriers that may prevent you from approaching Jesus with your needs. How can you overcome these barriers and experience His healing and restoration in your life?
PRAYER:
Lord Jesus, I thank you for your compassionate heart and your willingness to make yourself available to me. I believe you are my Savior, Messiah, Redeemer, Healer, Teacher, Lord, and Friend. Help me to be more attentive and responsive to the needs of those around me, following your example of love and compassion. May I also learn to approach you openly and humbly, trusting in your healing power and grace. In Your name, I pray. Amen.
THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.
SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!
DAILY word study: DISABLED In John 5:3, the Greek word used for "disabled" is "ἀσθενούντων" (asthenountōn), which comes from the root word "ἀσθενής" (asthenēs), meaning "weak" or "sick." This word is used to describe those who were physically infirm or afflicted with various illnesses, rendering them unable to move freely or care for themselves.
The term "ἀσθενούντων" emphasizes the condition of weakness or sickness experienced by these individuals, highlighting their vulnerability and need for healing. It underscores the physical limitations they faced and their dependence on others for assistance and support.
In the context of the passage, the pool of Bethesda was believed to have healing properties, and the disabled gathered there in the hope of receiving relief from their afflictions. However, their inability to access the water independently compounded their suffering, leaving them reliant on others to help them into the pool.
The Greek meaning of DISABLED prompts us to reflect on the broader implications of physical infirmity and disability in society. It challenges us to consider how we can extend compassion, support, and practical assistance to those who are weak or sick, following the example of Jesus' ministry of healing and restoration.
Reflections:
How can we demonstrate Christ-like compassion and support for the physically weak and sick in our communities, ensuring they receive the care and assistance they need to experience healing and wholeness?
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