Fourth Sunday of Pascha (Healing of the Paralytic)

On the fourth Sunday after Pascha, we commemorate the miracle of Christ healing a man who had been paralyzed for 38 years.

The story we read today is a beautiful depiction of two miracles. The first one is quite evident as the paralyzed man miraculously stood up and walked. The second miracle, however, was not visible to the eyes but was equally significant. Jesus declared that he had forgiven the man's sins, which created a stir among the Pharisees. This statement also affirmed Jesus's divinity as the Son of God. It's fascinating to see the contrast between the Pharisees' skepticism and the crowd's amazement at witnessing such a miracle. This story is a testament to the power of faith and the incredible things that can happen when we put our trust in God. It reminds us that God's love and grace are always available to us, and all we need is to have faith in Him.

Additionally, this Wednesday is Mid-Pentecost, the half-way point between Pascha and Pentecost.