When Jesus saw him lying there and learned that he had been in this condition for a long time, he asked him, “Do you want to get well?”
—John 5:6
In Bethesda, there was a special pool of water. Seemingly at random, the water would begin to bubble. Whoever entered the water as soon as the disturbance happened would be cured of their illness or disease. Many people thought the pool was being touched by an angel.
Because of the healing waters, some disabled and ill people would lie or sit beside it. They would wait for the waters to be stirred, hoping they would get there in time to experience this healing.
When Jesus went to the pool, He saw a man, lying beside it. This man has been sick for almost four decades, and Jesus asks him if he wants to be made well.
“Sir,” the invalid replied, “I have no one to help me into the pool when the water is stirred. While I am trying to get in, someone else goes down ahead of me.” (John 5:7)
Jesus tells the man to rise up and walk. To his delight, the man just does that. He gathers his things and goes on his way rejoicing.
The interesting thing about this story is how long the man waited by the pool. He must have spent years, hoping to be healed. Others may have given up and gone home to die, but not this man. In faith, he waited for a miracle.
God, give me the strength to wait on You and not give up. I want to experience real and radical healing, however long that takes. Grant me faith as I wait in this place. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
