“Jesus went throughout Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom, and healing every disease and sickness among the people.”
– Matthew 4:23
 In this next series, I am sharing my experiences at the beautiful pools of Bethesda, which I visited in the final leg of my trip to Israel. From the Greeks to Napoleon Bonaparte, several nations have claimed this territory throughout history, and behind me, there was a church flying a French flag. That church was full of people who were singing, and their echoing sound was hauntingly beautiful. Of course, biblically speaking, Bethesda is best known as the setting for the story from John 5, where an invalid man was trying to get well for 38 years. He often attempted to get in the stirred water, but he never had the opportunity — until the famous Rabbi Jesus came along and healed him.
In Christianity, we often discuss the crucifixion and resurrection, but we forget that their ultimate purpose is healing. That’s why Bethesda is a significant part of our history. Jesus came not just to heal us from sickness, but also to heal us from our sins and our brokenness. The miracle at the pool illustrates the purpose of the Gospel. This man had looked to many external sources for healing, including people and charitable donations, but only Christ could make him whole. And only Christ can make us whole. When we come before God and receive His gift by faith, we are transformed. Friend, it wasn’t the special place, superstition, holy water, or the pool that healed the man — it was the same Jesus who lives in you! God’s presence is with you, regardless of where you are, and He wants to make you well. Exercise your faith and trust that He can heal now, just as He did in Bethesda over 2,000 years ago. |
Prayer
Father, I believe that you have the power to heal me, so help me to exercise my faith and trust in you.
Reflection
Are you looking for healing from someone or something besides Jesus?
If you’re unable to attend your local church or need some additional weekly inspiration, be sure to tune into Hour of Power every Sunday morning at 11:00 a.m. PT on TBN or watch online at hourofpower.org/episode.
One Response
Renewed and refreshed, thank you!