How to Share Hope with a Deaf World: Lessons from Mark 7:31-37

Facing the Uncomfortable: A Miracle at the Pool of Bethesda

Update Rediscovering a Timeless Encounter: The Question that Changes Everything Imagine being at a pool where people wait year after year for a miracle, hoping for healing. That image captures the scene at the Pool of Bethesda where Jesus meets a man who has waited 38 long years for his chance to be healed. The question, "Do you want to get well?" hangs in the air like a challenge. Why would Jesus ask such an uncomfortable question? Could it be that sometimes, we become so comfortable in our struggles that our fear of change keeps us from the healing we seek?In the sermon '10th August 2025 pm sermon - John 5: 1 - 15,' the discussion dives into a miraculous encounter between Jesus and a man at the Pool of Bethesda, exploring key insights that sparked deeper analysis on our end. The Pool of Bethesda: More Than Just a Place The Pool of Bethesda was not just a location; it was a testament to the desperate hopes of many. With its five colonnades, it resembled a waiting room filled with those longing for grace. The name 'Bethesda' means "house of grace," and it's a poignant reminder that miracles happen in the most unlikely places. Despite the size and depth of the pools, this man had long given up hope, existing in a state of hopelessness. Have we ever felt similarly stuck? Sometimes, God puts us in situations to prompt healing and change, but our comfort in familiarity can make us hesitant. Uncomfortable Questions Lead to Growth This incredible moment raises many questions. What happens when we are faced with an uncomfortable question from God? Many times, we might respond with laments: "I can’t do this because..." just like the man at the pool who answered, “I have no one to help me.” His excuses reflect a common reality where we allow our limitations to dictate our desires. What if instead, we leaned into God’s inquiry and pursued the uncomfortable path towards healing? Growth is rarely found in comfort; rather, it waits for us in the embrace of honesty and willingness. The Uncomfortable Miracle: Grace Without Expectation Jesus’ healing of this man is shocking for many reasons. First, this man didn't even ask for healing. Imagine the surprise when, without any faith records or signs of expectation, Jesus simply commands him, "Get up! Walk!" Instantly, the man was healed. This unwanted grace brings discomfort — it's not about fitness or worthiness; it’s purely divine love. This event challenges our understanding of who is deserving of help. God’s grace flows freely, not reserved for the most faithful. Transforming Uncertainty into Trust As Christians, we often find ourselves waiting for a sign or specific answer to our prayers. Some wait for assurance of God's love amidst a decade of searching for answers, while others may wish for a breakthrough from an affliction they face daily. However, are we ready to trust God even when we cannot see how His plans will unfold? In the waiting, there is purpose — a deepening of faith, a shaping of character, and a spacing for God’s timing. Sometimes, His answers come not when we expect, but rather when we are ready to step into a new chapter of our lives. Awareness of a Deeper Encounter After being healed, the man meets Jesus again — this time in the temple — where he is kindly warned to "stop sinning or something worse will happen to you." This statement may sound harsh; however, it's rooted in love. Jesus wants him to understand that while physical healing is remarkable, spiritual health matters more. His words encourage a return to righteousness, signifying that a heart transformed leads to a life truly set free. How many of us need to hear a similar message in our own lives? Are there places where we need to seek forgiveness or change? The Call to Share the Grace We’ve Received Jesus didn't only heal; he also made a radical statement about the power of conversation and relationships. This miracle was ultimately a call for us to share this grace with others. Just as Jesus extended His grace without precondition, the same is expected of us — reaching out in love to those who may feel unworthy or undeserving. Who needs that love from us today? Can we lean into uncomfortable conversations about faith, about forgiveness, about grace? It is in our hands to build community around those who are lost and seeking solace. Faith-Filled Action: Join Us in the Journey As you reflect on the story of the man at the Pool of Bethesda, think about your own journey. Is there an area where you feel God is asking, “Do you want to be made well?” If so, embrace that quest. Share your struggles and invite someone to support you along the path. Let’s step outside of our comfort zones, leaning into the transformative love and grace that God has in store for us. Let these discussions guide our family fellowship, our parenting, and our commitment to biblical teachings as we grow together. If you’re inspired by this message, consider joining our community as we explore these discussions further and engage in acts of faith within our neighborhoods. Encourage your family to talk about God's love openly, and perhaps even seek a way to support someone who needs to feel His grace. May we continually remember that God's grace is not just a concept to explore; it’s a gift to embrace and share with others.