When Jesus saw him lying there and learned that he had been in this condition for a long time, he asked him, “Do you want to get well?”- John 5:6
Mark Batterson begins Chapter 11 (“Self-Fulfilling Prophecies”) of The Grave Robber by reporting that, in November of 2004, a group of elite medical researchers met at Rockefeller University in New York City. They ultimately determined that most of our health problems are caused by factors under our control.
Most of our major health problems, Pastor Batterson notes, could be solved by making a few minor changes. However, a wish or a whim won’t result in lasting change. We have to want to change. Mark offers his working definition of want: “the sanctified desire and matching discipline to do what needs to be done, no matter how hard it is or how long it takes.”
Jesus elevated formulating the right question to an art form. Some of Jesus’ most poignant ones are the point-blank questions. One was the catalyst for His third miracle. Jesus didn’t assume the invalid really wanted to get well. Only someone who wants help truly can be helped.
Mark points out that it’s easy for us to become accustomed to our crutches. Our situation won’t change if we keep sitting on our security blanket, choosing safety over transformation. Yet, every blessing from God comes with the responsibility to steward that blessing.
Today’s question: Following your vocation loss, what crutches or security blankets do you need to throw away? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: “The law of requisite variety”
