“And when he returned to Capernaum after some days, it was reported that he was at home. And many were gathered together, so that there was no more room, not even at the door. And he was preaching the word to them. And they came, bringing to him a paralytic carried by four men. And when they could not get near him because of the crowd, they removed the roof above him, and when they had made an opening, they let down the bed on which the paralytic lay.”
This was the first sermon I preached in Hebrew. I love this story, and what stands out to me is the word “expectation.” Of course, the word “expectation” doesn’t appear in the story. It was their actions that shouted “expectation.” Everything they did was based on their expectation that Jesus would heal their friend.
I wish that every time I gather with God’s people, I expect God to do something, … for me and for others. However, I realize that way too often I gather with God’s people because I am “supposed to.”
Can God surprise me? Sure! But when I am present out of habit or obligation, where is my mind and heart while I am physically present? A million miles away. On those occasions, I may not hear what is said because my thoughts of other things are so loud. Since God works through His word, I am effectively telling God to “be quiet.”
Father, please help me to gather with your people (or read your word) with expectation. You are a good God who showers His people with blessings. Forgive me for the many times I have disregarded or ignored what you had for me. Amen.
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