In Africa we have a saying that “it takes a whole village to raise a child” everyone in the community has a responsibility to make sure that a child grows into a responsible, respectful, well integrated person. A neighbor can offer discipline to a neighbor's child. In our faith as Catholics or believers there is also what we refer to as “interdependence of faith” which implies that as believers we rely on each other as parts of a larger whole, the Body of Christ” to grow, find strength, and live out our beliefs. As Christians we can move beyond our individualism to mutual support, shared burdens and collective witness to Christ’s teaching of mercy and love.
That is the image portrayed in today’s gospel. These four friends who were determined to see that their friend, a paralytic, is brought to Jesus for healing. They demonstrate an extraordinary faith through their creativity in overcoming all challenges and obstacles in getting their friend to Jesus. No barrier would stand in their way whether it was the large crowd around Jesus or the roof over Jesus.
Their actions illustrate well what interdependence faith looks life; it involves vulnerability (recognizing that I need help), offering help, receiving support and recognizing that everyone, regardless of their role, is vital to the community’s spiritual health. The actions of these four friends mainly opening the roof to lower down the paralytic before Jesus manifest the power of collective faith. Seeing such an act of Love, Jesus is moved to compassion and not only forgives the man’s sins but also offers him complete physical healing. Through the actions and faith of the four friends, Jesus turns despair into hope for them all. This shows how God responds when we go out of our way to seek help for our loved ones.
For us as believes it is important to note;
The healing of the paralytic also shows that Jesus attends to both our physical ailments and spiritual needs. He has divine authority to attend and heal both physical and spiritual sicknesses. He extends his mercy through forgiveness of sins and wants us to know that we are being embraced by God’s love. He may not always do exactly what we are asking for, but he does pour out his grace – just the right amount at just the right time and in just the right way.