Paralyzed - Mark 2:1-12

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First you're expected to put on a happy face, then suddenly it is 'cool' to be real:
Show your emotions!
Be "honest" with God and each other.

Once that gets too "real" you better tone it down
and put that happy face back on-
People only want to hear it as far as is convenient for their comfort.
If pain gets to the point you need help carrying it, suddenly,
you're not being thankful enough,
not trying hard enough,
not being spiritual enough.

In other words, be real, but only for an appropriate amount of time.
Then, get over it.

But sometimes we don't just need help carrying our burdens.
Sometimes we need to be CARRIED!
Weariness eats into our bones and sorrow breaks them.
Crying out with no answer leaves our voices dry.
Remember the story of the paralytic man and his friends?
No voice to call out to Jesus or ability to crawl his way there.
Too crowded. Impossible situation.

The man had no strength,
but his friends carried him to the roof, broke through the ceiling and lowered him to the feet of Jesus.
The man never said a word to Jesus,
but Jesus forgave the man's sins,
bade him walk,
and received the praise.

I am as weary and silent as the man. My prayers are no longer words, only,
Groans, weeping, deep seated angst of soul that the Holy Spirit alone can interpret.
Except to say:
Rescue me.
Dear God, hear me.
Please help.
God Almighty, whom do I have, but You?
Rescue me.
Dear God, HELP ME!

Even that cry is waning with my strength.
I wish someone would carry me.

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