The Healing Power of Prayers

But not finding any way to bring him in because of the crowd, they went up on the roof and let him down through the tiles with his stretcher, into the middle of the crowd, in front of Jesus. Seeing their faith, He said, “Friend, your sins are forgiven you.”  Luke 5:19-20

This story in Luke about Jesus healing a paralytic who was let down through the roof was the scripture Rob chose for this month’s second Tuesday cohort.  Having just been released from the hospital the Thursday before, the words, Seeing their faith, jumped out at me.  Jesus actually healed this person, not because of the person’s faith, but because of the faith of his friends.

During my seven days in the hospital, I was having a terrible time concentrating as I prayed and as I tried to say the Psalms I have memorized that are a part of my morning devotions.  Every time I would pull out my cell phone and start going through my pray list, someone would come into the room or I’d fall asleep.  I just couldn’t concentrate.  I was doing a terrible job of talking with God!

Jesus healed the paralytic because of the faith of his friends.  I know that I was covered in prayer while I was in the hospital. I couldn’t concentrate enough to pray, but you all were praying for me. Thank you!  Most people when they see me can’t believe I had quadruple by-pass surgery on April 2.  Your continued prayers for my quick recovery and healing are powerful.  Please keep praying!

This verse and my experience made me realize the value of praying for the sick.  I thank you for your prayers and I entreat you to never neglect your prayers for those who, like me, just may be having a difficult time praying while they are sick.  Jesus healed the paralytic because of the faith of his friends.