Do You Want to Get Well?
Good morning. Today, we continue our series titled "What Do You Want?" This is week three, and we are diving into a profound question that Jesus asked in John 5:6, "Do you want to get well?" This question is not just about physical healing but also about spiritual and emotional wholeness. Let's explore this together.
What Do You Want Out of Life?
In the first week, we discussed the direct question from Jesus in John 1:38, "What do you want?" Last week, we differentiated between transactional faith, where we see Jesus as a cosmic vending machine, and transformational faith, where we enter a relationship with Jesus that changes us from the inside out. Today, we focus on the question, "Do you want to get well?"
The Story of Raul Jimenez
Before diving into the scripture, let's consider the story of Raul Jimenez, a professional soccer player who suffered a severe head injury in 2020. Despite the odds, he returned to professional soccer nine months later and scored a goal in the World Cup. His story is a testament to choosing the path of healing and not letting an injury define his life.
The Pool of Bethesda
In John 5, we find Jesus at the Pool of Bethesda, a place where many sick people gathered, hoping for healing. The pool was believed to have healing powers when its waters were stirred. However, modern archaeology reveals that the stirring was due to a natural siphoning effect, not a supernatural event.
Jesus and the Paralyzed Man
Jesus approached a man who had been paralyzed for 38 years and asked him, "Do you want to get well?" (John 5:6). The man's response was filled with hopelessness, "I can't, sir, for I have no one to put me into the pool when the water bubbles up. Someone else always gets there ahead of me" (John 5:7).
Illness Engulfment
This man's identity was engulfed by his illness. Modern psychology calls this "illness engulfment," where a person defines themselves solely by their illness. Social media exacerbates this issue, with many young people adopting mental health labels based on inaccurate information.
Jesus' Healing Power
Jesus didn't just offer physical healing; He offered a new identity. He told the man, "Stand up, pick up your mat, and walk!" (John 5:8). Instantly, the man was healed. This miracle gave Jesus authority in the man's life, and he immediately followed Jesus' instructions.
The Reaction of the Jewish Leaders
The Jewish leaders were more concerned about the man carrying his mat on the Sabbath than the miracle itself. They missed the point entirely, focusing on legalism rather than the transformative power of Jesus.
Spiritual Healing
Jesus later found the man in the temple and told him, "Now you are well; so stop sinning, or something even worse may happen to you" (John 5:14). Jesus wanted more than just physical healing for this man; He wanted spiritual wholeness.
Do You Want to Get Well?
This question is not just for the paralyzed man; it's for all of us. Do you want to get well? Do you want to be free from the things that have defined you for so long? Jesus offers a new identity, but it requires vulnerability and a willingness to take risks.
Living in Community
James 5:16 says, "Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed." Healing often comes through community and relationships. Don't leave today without making a new friend, someone who can eventually become a trusted confidant.
Life Application
Jesus doesn't work in our doubts; He works in our decisions. What decision will you make today? Will you choose to get well? Will you choose to live in community and vulnerability?
Questions to Reflect On:
What areas of your life need healing?
Are you willing to be vulnerable and seek help from others?
How can you take a step towards community this week?
Challenge yourself this week to take a step towards healing. Whether it's reaching out to a friend, joining a small group, or spending time in prayer, make a decision to move towards the wholeness that Jesus offers.
Remember, your identity is not in your brokenness; it is in Jesus. He died for you, and He wants you to live a life of freedom and purpose.
Let's embrace the healing and new identity that Jesus offers. Amen.
