Have you ever felt alone?  You are struggling with an issue and it seems there is no one who wants to help you?  Probably we have all felt like that at times, but there are many around us who are desperate right now. They are like the needy people who were lying beside the Pool of Bethesda in the time of Jesus.

 

This pool is in Jerusalem near the temple.  At times an angel stirred the water, and it was believed that the first person into the water, would be healed.  When there is a promise of healing, people gather.  So the blind, lame and paralyzed came to this place, and among them is a paralyzed man.  For 38 years he has come to this place.

Although there were many needy people around the pool, Jesus stops for this man.  He has felt so alone, but here is a man who speaks to him.  Who is this man?  It seems he has no idea. So when Jesus asks if he wants to be healed, he tells Jesus there is no one to help him into the pool.

 

It is significant that the name Bethesda means ‘House of Mercy’.  This man is about to experience God’s incredible mercy.  As soon as Jesus tells him to pick up his bed mat and walk, he does.

 

This is what Jesus is like!  Whatever situation you are in, you are not alone.  There is someone who can help you, and he wants to.  Perhaps you are concerned for another person, who does not know Jesus.  The paralyzed man didn’t either, but Jesus came to him.  There is no one whom Jesus will not extend his mercy towards. Reach out to him today.