True Friends

When was the last time you went all out to help someone?

When he returned to Capernaum after some days, it was reported that he was at home. So many gathered around that there was no longer room for them, not even in front of the door; and he was speaking the word to them. Then some people came, bringing to him a paralyzed man, carried by four of them. And when they could not bring him to Jesus because of the crowd, they removed the roof above him; and after having dug through it, they let down the mat on which the paralytic lay. When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, "Son, your sins are forgiven." - Mark 2:1-5

Today's Gospel reading is about commitment and friendship.

Four carried the paralytic man, but many others came with them.  There was strength in numbers, and perhaps they took turns carrying him, so they could make the journey as quickly as possible.

We all have people we call friends.  Would they do this for us?

Even when faced with an obstacle, they found a way around, if not through it.

True friendship is a powerful thing.  It is the bond love creates between two or more people.

When we call someone friend we tell them we will be there for them through everything, from good to bad and back again.  We make a promise to walk in love with them and not abandon them when life becomes difficult or inconvenient.

These friends didn't just visit and comfort the man.  They took him where he wanted and needed to go to be healed.  They gave of themselves for him.

This reading is for all of us who call ourselves friends.  We are reminded of true commitment and compassion.  These are the things we sign up for when we say yes to friendship.

If we aren't ready for that, we should be honest with ourselves and the one we call friend.

I care, but not enough to do what you need me to do for you.

Jesus never said that.  He was and is a true friend to all.

More to come...