Now he was teaching in one of the synagogues on the sabbath. And just then there appeared a woman with a spirit that had crippled her for eighteen years. She was bent over and was quite unable to stand up straight. When Jesus saw her, he called her over and said, “Woman, you are set free from your ailment.” (Luke 13:10-12)
In this week’s scripture lesson, Jesus heals a crippled woman. It’s not unusual for Him to heal anyone, but He has a special purpose in mind for this healing beyond just compassion for one who is suffering. As we will see later in this lesson, Jesus has something to teach us.
Jesus healed because He cared about us, but there was always a lesson in His actions. He wanted to show us that beyond the physical healing was the relationship with God that made spiritual healing possible. Jesus wanted us to be made whole not just in body, but in our connection to our Creator so that we might live fully.
What physical and spiritual ailments do you have to give to the Lord for healing? He knows our pain and weakness and stands ready to support us when we ask in faith. Let Him be the rock of your salvation in times of need and times of joy!
Loving Lord, we are burdened by our human weakness, in body and in spirit. Help us to accept Your love and Your strength to be able to do Your will in our world. Amen.