Do Whatever It Takes

Have you ever known someone who was truly determined to do something? Someone determined enough not to give up regardless of how hard or impossible the situation appeared to be?

Most likely that person achieved their goals because of their determination.

In Mark 2:1-4 we read about the determination of some men towards a paralytic man. The story goes as follows: Jesus was in Capernaum preaching to such a large crowd surrounding Him that people couldn’t even get to the door to get in to hear Him. There then came some men carrying a man who needed healing because he was paralyzed. As these men got closer they saw, because of the large crowd they couldn’t make their way to Jesus.

Now at this moment, they could have given up. Said they were sorry he wasn’t going to get his healing because they just couldn’t get in and quit. They decided though through determination to go one step further and not give up. Together they tore the roof off piece by piece eventually being able to lower their friend directly down into the sight of Jesus and he was healed.

The Bible does not tell us how long it took or even if they had any tools available to them, however, what is evident is they were determined to not let anything stand in their way and they didn’t. These men were willing to go the distance for this man regardless of how much time it took, and how many obstacles were facing them. Because of that, this man was restored to great health not only outside, but inwardly as well.

Another important lesson to learn from this story is these men never asked for a thank you or recognition. They were not found bragging or boasting about what they had done, because these men knew it wasn’t about them, but about their friend and Jesus who healed him.

Galatians 6:2 tells us to: Bear one another’s burdens, and thus fulfill the law of Christ.”

1 John 3:16-18 says “We know love by this, that He laid down His life for us, and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren, but whoever has the world’s goods, and beholds his brother in need and closes his heart against him, how does the love of God abide in him little children, let us not love with word or with tongue, but in deed and truth.”

The men in this story are true examples of what God’s word tells us to do. There are so many needs in this world, and equally so much we can do to help. We must be willing to take a closer look at those around us, and their need and a way we can help. Not to just wait for someone to come to us – but for us to be aware.

To be determined to help, and not give up despite how impossible or time-consuming it may be. The Bible says we are to “bear” or “carry” each other’s burdens (needs) – because that is one way we show God’s love to others and we are to do it humbly and willingly. To help out of sincere love for others– not out of the hope of personal or public recognition. Not only willing to help if it does not “put” us out too much but because of the love of God within us. We need to also remember that with God He is the One who always sees when we help others and will bless us accordingly. For when we help others it is to be unto the Lord Jesus Christ not for public accolades.

I admire the courage, love, dedication, and determination of these men for what they did for that man as I’m sure the man who was healed would also agree. Imagine the thankfulness this man had felt as he witnessed what lengths his friends were willing to go for him.

Imagine this man lying on a stretcher hearing all their challenging work taking place and imagine the thoughts that ran through his mind. His friends that day were determined to get him to Jesus and by their actions these men are still bringing others to Christ.

May we all have those same qualities to help those in need around us and may we never give up so that others may be brought into the presence of Jesus Christ and be restored not only physically but internally as well.