October 13, 2026
Be of Good Cheer - Part 2
Matthew 9:2
10/13/2026
2 And behold, some people brought to him a
paralytic, lying on a bed. And when Jesus saw
their faith, he said to the paralytic, ``Take
heart, my son; your sins are forgiven.'' (ESV)
The message Jesus proclaimed was simple, repent for the
kingdom of heaven is at hand. He calls on all people to
recognize that they have sinned, have ignored God and harmed
their neighbors. In confessing, He asks us to trust that He has
already paid the price of our transgressions.
This week's prayer reinforces our understanding that only by
God's grace, mercy, and goodness can we do what is pleasing in
His sight. Our good works are a response to His love shown in
Christ Jesus.
Almighty and merciful God, of Your bountiful goodness
keep from us all things that may hurt us that we, being
ready in both body and soul, may cheerfully accomplish
whatever You would have us to do.
Jesus had returned to Capernaum having traveled around
Galilee teaching and healing the sick.
And behold, some people brought to him a paralytic,
lying on a bed. And when Jesus saw their faith, he said
to the paralytic, ``Take heart, my son; your sins are
forgiven.''
All people understand that there are consequences to sin,
even if they do not believe in the Triune God. Someone who was
paralyzed would agonize over the cause of his illness. He would
be terrified of dying, for he would know he was condemned. Jesus
took away that fear.
May our Lord take away our fear of death by proclaiming that
we also are forgiven. Amen.