📖 From the Bible
Four people were carrying a man to Jesus. He couldn’t walk. They couldn’t get close because of the crowd. So they made a hole in the roof right above Jesus. And they lowered down the mat the man was lying on.
3Four people came, carrying a paralytic to him. 4When they could not come near to him for the crowd, they removed the roof where he was. When they had broken it up, they let down the mat that the paralytic was lying on.
This is how we tell this passage to kids. The exact words of the Bible are under “As it is in the Bible”.
Mark 2:3-4 · Scripture: World English Bible Updated (public domain)
You’re stuck in a line that isn’t moving at all. Now imagine you’re not standing there for yourself, but for a friend who can’t walk. Four friends had exactly that problem. But they didn’t just go home.
Jesus came back to town and stayed in a house. He was telling people about God. The news spread fast. So many people came that there wasn’t even room outside the door. The house was packed. Meanwhile, four friends were carrying another friend. He couldn’t walk. They wanted to bring him to Jesus, but the crowd was shoulder to shoulder.
Then they got an idea. They climbed up on the roof. They made a hole in it. Then they lowered their friend down, right in front of Jesus! Jesus looked at them and saw that they really trusted Him. They knew only He could help. That’s why they didn’t give up. Making a hole in somebody else’s roof is no joke. They must have believed it was worth it. They didn’t wait for permission.
First, Jesus said something very important: “Son, your sins are forgiven you.” Then He told the man to get up, take his mat and go home. And the man got up! He picked up his mat and walked out in front of everybody. People couldn’t believe it. They said, “We never saw anything like this!” Can you imagine being there?
Did you know?
This story was written down by Mark. His book is the shortest of the four books about Jesus’ life. Mark writes fast, like someone telling you a soccer game while it’s happening: Jesus did this, then that, and right away something else. There aren’t many long speeches, and there’s a lot of action. Many people believe Mark learned his stories from Peter, who was right there with Jesus. That’s why he tells it as if he were really there.
Look at Jesus
Look at what Jesus did first. He didn’t only care about the man’s legs. He cared about his whole life, and He said, “Son, your sins are forgiven you.” That means the wrong things he had done were forgiven, and he could start fresh. Jesus loves to help, and He is alive. He still sees the friends who bring others to Him.
What about you?
Someone in your class has a problem. Maybe they can’t figure out the homework, or they’re sad. Maybe nobody wants to play with them. They won’t ask for help on their own. The four friends in the story didn’t wait to be invited. They looked for a way. You can take the first step too. Ask how they’re feeling. Sit down next to them. Or tell a grown-up who can help.
Let’s talk about it
- Remember a time when someone helped you in a way that surprised you.
- What would you do if every door were closed and someone you love needed help? Or can you think of something else?
- Who do you know who really needs a friend today?
Today’s challenge
Ask one person today how they’re feeling, and really listen to the answer. If you notice that someone is having a hard time, take one small step to help.
Prayer
Jesus, thank You for the people who help me. Show me who I can help today, and give me the courage to do it. Amen.
Tap when you have prayed.