Healing Prayer

Healing Prayer

Even after 10 trips to Israel, there are some sites that still capture my imagination. One of them is the Pool of Bethesda (picture left.). John 5 describes this pool as the setting of one of Jesus’ most spectacular healings. 

A man paralyzed for 38 years laid by the pool, along with hundreds of other afflicted souls, hoping for a magical stirring of the waters that might cure them. Jesus visited the pool one day and picked out this one man, calling to him with these memorable words: “Do you want to be healed?” Interestingly, the man never really answered Jesus’ question. He explained why he was still sick and complained about his situation…but he never did say, simply, “YES! I want to be healed!” Still, Jesus in his grace, said, “Get up, take up your bed, and walk!” And the man did just that. Imagine, 38 years an invalid and, with a word from Jesus, he was healed.

Since September we have been focused as a church on prayer … prayer in lots of different forms. We are now feeling led to offer prayers for healing on a more regular basis. On the second Sunday of every month from 10:00-10:45 am, we will gather in the Prayer Chapel. Those who desire to be healed physically, emotionally or spiritually will be anointed with oil and prayed for. One of the signs of Jesus’ power granted to his followers was their ability to heal in his name. We will boldly seek that same gift for all who, along with the man at Bethesda, would answer, “YES, I WANT to be healed!”

Our first service for healing prayer will occur next Sunday, April 9. I invite you to come.

Pastor Mark

PS – If you are a young family (with kids 5th grade or younger), Cyndi and I invite you to join us for our next Young Families potluck at 4:30 pm in the gym. Come ready to explore; we are going to do a church-wide scavenger hunt!