Some men brought to him a paralyzed man, lying on a mat. When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the man, “Take heart, son; your sins are forgiven.” (Matthew 9:2)
Sharon’s life looked perfect on the outside. She was married to a godly man who loved her deeply. She had three beautiful, healthy children. She worked part-time in a job that she found fulfilling.
But still, Sharon couldn’t shake the depression that followed her around. She didn’t understand why she was depressed. She’d had a great childhood with loving parents. She’d never suffered any significant illnesses or diseases.
Still, she struggled to get out of bed each morning. She felt guilty for being depressed. “You don’t have a real reason to be sad,” she reminded her reflection in the mirror.
One day, her husband gently suggested Sharon should see a counselor.
“I feel like I should be strong enough to overcome this on my own,” Sharon said.
“You don’t have to be,” Her husband responded. “Just like the paralyzed man needed people to carry him to Jesus, sometimes, we need people to carry us. Let me help you. I’ll go with you to see the counselor and support you every step of the way.”
God, when I can’t do it on my own, send sweet friends and a loving community to wrap their arms around me. Let me feel their support and care each step of this journey. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
