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o Jesus saw the man, who had been ill for many years, lying at the
pool. He knew the longings that were deep in the sick man’s
heart. He took the initiative and said to him, “Do you want to be
made well?”
o This chronically ill person expected nothing new. There was no
one to help him to get first into the water that cured. But God can
always surprise us. There is no end to his creative ability.
o The three commands of Jesus changed his life completely: “Stand
up, take your mat and walk.” Or in other words become active
again. But only when spoken by Jesus have these words such
force.
o If we allow Christ to speak these same words to us, we will
achieve much.

Resume Prayer
 Resume Prayer

Some thoughts on today's scripture

o Thirty-eight years of waiting! Did Jesus single out this man
knowing that he had endured his illness longer than anyone else?
Jesus speaks with him patiently and allows the man reveal the
pain of his isolation, but he also ignites his desire to be healed.
Jesus tells us of his desire for the man: “Do not sin any more...”
o Are there sick people in your family, among your friends? Bring
them one by one, before the Lord asking him to do what is best
for them. Maybe you are worried about your own health? Tell the
Lord of your anxieties and leave them with him. “Cast all your
anxiety on him, because he cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:7).
o What might the Lord say in response to your prayer?