The Man with the crippled hand Luke 6:6-11
Imaginative Contemplation
Enter into the scene
Some years ago, I had an accident which affected my right hand and arm. The incident changed my life. Simple tasks like having a shower, drying my back, putting on my clothes and adjusting them all became very difficult. I could no longer write. Pouring a glass of wine was beyond my capacity. I needed help in so many activities of daily life. I had to give up work and became dependent on my wife. OK, this was what life was like for me now, and I didn’t blame God. Indeed, I found solace in my weekly attendance at the synagogue. And sometimes, thinking about my disability and watching the scribes and Pharisees, I saw that they, too had a disability, one which closed their minds and hearts. They were paralysed, too! Their image of God was crippling.
I can remember the day so well. The morning had been filled with frustration. My inability to do so many things seemed to overwhelm me. So I took some time out, went outside and sat under my favourite tree to calm down. ‘Oh God, why did you let this happen to me? I get so frustrated! And I am a burden on my family!’ When I had calmed down, I went back int to the house to prepare to go to the synagogue.
When I arrived, there were a lot of people gathered around the entrance. I found my way to my usual spot and realised that we had a guest preacher, Jesus of Nazareth. I had heard about him, but not seen him. Oh well, this will be different. I also saw some of those scribes and Pharisees who had treated me so badly after my accident, telling me that this was a punishment from God for my sinfulness!
The service began as usual, with reading from the text and prayers to our saving God. I was sitting quietly when Jesus called my name. ‘Reuben, please come up here and stand with me.’ ‘Who? Me?’ ‘Yes please.’ Confused, I got to my feet and came to Jesus. I felt his welcome. Then he turned to the Jewish leaders and challenged them to criticize his actions, quoting the Bible in its compassion and love. He turned to me and said, ‘Stretch out your hand!’ How could I do that? I was confused. I stretched out my left hand. ‘No,’ said Jesus, taking my left hand. ‘Try the other one.’ So, I DID! And I could! Surprised, delighted, amazed, I looked at Jesus and hugged him. It was spontaneous. I couldn’t help myself! And the people in the synagogue cheered and clapped. I ran home, ignoring the small group of elders who were muttering by the door. ‘Glory to God! Thank you, God! I’m healed!’
For further reflection
Discuss with Jesus the following points:
· How do I view people who have a disability? Do I see them as people or problems?
· Do I have a disability? How does this affect my life?
· Humans are communal beings. How can we help each other, sharing our gifts?
· All people deserve respect and love. Can I see beyond the disability to the whole person, loved and accepted by God?
Prayer
Lord, open my heart to see the gifts that we all have to share with one another. Amen.