“Stretch out your hand.” // Luke 6:10
"How are you?"
Something along the lines of “Oh, I’m fine!” has been my natural response for as long as I can remember. Before I even think about the question, I find myself assuring someone that I’m great, never better, nothing to see here, business as usual.
Because it would take too much time to get into it, and talking about it could hurt, and it would be better to just move on, right?
If you’re anything like me, you may have also found yourself avoiding moments of vulnerability in an effort to maintain what you think is peace, only to end up feeling isolated, discouraged, and stuck.
Jesus shows us another way.
In today’s Gospel, Jesus asks the man with the withered hand to stretch out his hand. Surely, this physical affliction weighed heavily on this man and was more than likely something he’d rather keep hidden. But he moves in faith and shows Jesus his fragility.
There, in that moment of utter vulnerability and trust, the man is healed. His life begins anew.
This new life is available to you and me, friend. When we’re honest with the Lord (and trusted friends, family, counselors, etc.), we make ourselves available for deep healing and restoration. We don’t have to be afraid of our brokenness or frailty. We can bring it to the Light.
Pray with me today: Lord, open my heart. Allow me to flourish in Your new life. Give me the courage to be vulnerable and ask for Your healing. Jesus, I trust in You.