[1] Jesus climbed into a boat and went back across the lake to his own town. [2] Some people brought to him a paralyzed man on a mat. Seeing their faith, Jesus said to the paralyzed man, “Be encouraged, my child! Your sins are forgiven.” [3] But some of the teachers of religious law said to themselves, “That’s blasphemy! Does he think he’s God?” [4] Jesus knew what they were thinking, so he asked them, “Why do you have such evil thoughts in your hearts? [5] Is it easier to say ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or ‘Stand up and walk’? [6] So I will prove to you that the Son of Man has the authority on earth to forgive sins.” Then Jesus turned to the paralyzed man and said, “Stand up, pick up your mat, and go home!” [7] And the man jumped up and went home! [8] Fear swept through the crowd . . . and they praised God for sending a man with such great authority. Matthew 9:1-8
From the early grades in school, we worry that certain friendships might cause us embarrassment. “What will people think if I’m seen with them?” we fret. Often we’ll do just about anything to associate with people who might elevate our public image and avoid those who drag it down.
Jesus didn’t worry about his social status. In fact, he risks social disgrace in this reading by going to Matthew’s house for dinner. But in doing so, Jesus helps another, regardless of his status. In this reading, we also learn that when it comes to a person’s receptivity to spiritual matters, appearances can be deceiving. As you read, consider how you can focus on others and not just yourself.
Some of the Pharisees tried hard to find fault with Jesus. Often their attacks involved some sort of interview over fine points of doctrine, but they also went after his actions. On this occasion, they noticed what looked like a perfect opportunity to trap Jesus in a political blunder—associating with criminals (Matthew 9:11-12). Jesus shocked them, first of all, by not caring about his image and second, by faulting them for doing so.
In the public eye, everyone notices whose company we keep. But this shouldn’t matter, provided that we are influencing others for good and aren’t being influenced by them for evil.
If you are overly concerned with whom you’re seen, pray for the courage to follow Jesus’ example by loving and helping the social outcasts. Your reputation may suffer on earth, but it won’t suffer in heaven.
This is an excerpt from: The One Year Through the Bible
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