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Freda Reynolds

John 5:6: “When Jesus saw him lying there and knew that he had already been there a long time in that condition, He said to him,” Do you want to be made whole?” 

Our first thought is, of course, he does! But as is usually the case with Jesus, there is more Jesus wants the man to realize. 

Let’s begin with the purpose of the gospel of John. John 20:31, “These things were written that you may believe Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the Living God and that believing you may have life in His name.” John writes his letter to show the authority of Jesus and that He wants us to believe in His name so that we might have eternal life. 

Now, for this lame man, Jesus wants to heal him. Many times, He has shown HIs authority by healing people. Here, I believe He wants to give this man more than physical health. The man has lain there many years; he is discouraged, helpless 

on his own to get to the pool where he believes healing will come. He feels alone and neglected by his family and society. Those are his scars from lying for 38 years seeking to be healed. 

Later, when Jesus meets him in the temple courtyard, Jesus tells him to “go and sin no more.” Sin leaves scars on us. Every lie we’ve told, every betrayal of trust, every voice of pride we’ve spoken. Our sin creates a scar on our heart and life. Our sin, omission, or commission will eventually affect our health physically. Just as surely eating nothing but donuts will clog your arteries, our behaviors against God will affect our health, physically and particularly spiritually. 

Do you want to be made whole? Jesus desires for us to live abundantly here and with Him in heaven for eternity. Life isn’t about the don’ts in the Christian walk. The commands of God are there to protect us from the scars and consequences of a life lived recklessly. 

Determine to live a life of joy and peace. You will not regret it.