We have already studied much of the second chapter of Mark reviewed as part of lesson 7. However, as I read, I was touched by the role of the friends of the palsied man. Though they are rarely discussed, they seem like four men worthy of emulation.
When Christ returned to Capernum, a multitude of people gathered in his home to hear Him preach and minister. Among those wishing to be included were four men bearing a palsied fifth on a litter. When they could not get through because of the crowd, they climbed on the roof and lowered their sick friend, who was, indeed, healed by Christ.
Most of the discussion I have heard refer to the man who was healed. I don’t think I have ever honestly pondered the role the man’s friends played in bringing him to Christ. But let’s look at what they did.
These four men tried to bring their friend to obtain the healing power of Christ. But, as always seems to happen, obstacles arose. The way was not smooth and easy, but hard. The men could have looked at the crowd, shrugged, told their friend ‘sorry’, and taken him home. After all, it wasn’t their bodies that stood in need of healing. Instead, they examined the situation and tried a different approach. I know I wouldn’t have thought to carry him up to the roof and lower him down, but these men took the challenge.
As we try to share the gospel with our friends, we can virtually guarantee that things will be difficult. Perhaps they won’t respond positively to an invitation to meet with the missionaries. However, they might be more open to attending a dinner, activity, or family home evening. Perhaps they will struggle with their family or other friends, who strive to discourage them.
Whatever the challenge may be, our response is almost as important as theirs. True, our souls are not in jeopardy. However, our willingness to help bring them to the healing power of the Savior shows the depth of our love and charity. So when you come across obstacles while sharing your testimony of the gospel, remember the four men who sought the less-obvious way. How can you bring those you love within Jesus’ reach?
Related Articles:
Gospel Doctrine: The Great Physician
Five Ways to Support the Missionaries
Gospel Doctrine: Baptized By Fire (also from this week’s lesson)