The man with the withered hand experienced a new sense of freedom on that sabbath day when Jesus made him the focal point of the room.
Imagine how he must have felt when he was told to stand up in front of everyone. Imagine the shock and anger on the faces of the Scribes and Pharisees when Jesus said, “Stretch forth thy hand.” Imagine the freedom the man had the moment his hand was healed.
It didn’t matter that he was the center of attention. It didn’t matter to him how the critics got angry. He was free from his issue/burden. He was healed, and that was all that mattered. He couldn’t help that Jesus chose to heal him when the critics disapproved. God will go over people’s heads to bring freedom!
I don’t know about you, but there are issues I need Jesus to heal, and I’m willing to be called out to receive my deliverance. Others might not appreciate God’s timing, what He says, or how He chooses to deliver, but it doesn’t matter. When He speaks to our issues, change will occur. And that is all that matters.
6 And it came to pass also on another sabbath, that he entered into the synagogue and taught: and there was a man whose right hand was withered. 7 And the scribes and Pharisees watched him, whether he would heal on the sabbath day; that they might find an accusation against him. 8 But he knew their thoughts, and said to the man which had the withered hand, Rise up, and stand forth in the midst. And he arose and stood forth. 9 Then said Jesus unto them, I will ask you one thing; Is it lawful on the sabbath days to do good, or to do evil? to save life, or to destroy it? 10 And looking round about upon them all, he said unto the man, Stretch forth thy hand. And he did so: and his hand was restored whole as the other. 11 And they were filled with madness; and communed one with another what they might do to Jesus. (Luke 6:6-11 KJV)
In the Master’s Service,
Author/Pastor Michele D Robertson
28 Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.
Matthew 11:28-29 (KJV)