The Role of Caregivers
Signs & Wonders: Part 1
January 11, 2026
Some people arrived, and four of them were bringing to him a man who was paralyzed. They couldn’t carry him through the crowd, so they tore off part of the roof above where Jesus was. When they had made an opening, they lowered the mat on which the paralyzed man was lying. When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, “Child, your sins are forgiven!”
~ Mark 2:3-5
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Sometimes it’s hard to know what to do with the miracle stories in scripture. We don’t see such supernatural outcomes as readily today, which can lead to two extremes. On one hand, we can be dismissive of those who have experienced miracles in their lives. On the other, the absence of a miracle can lead to guilt or shame about the strength of our faith. Neither response is helpful. Whether we believe in literal miracles or not, these stories invite us into active participation in bringing about the Kingdom of God on earth as it is in heaven.
This week’s miracle story involves a paralyzed man being lowered through the roof of the home where Jesus was staying. We can imagine the outrage if such a scene occurred today: property damaged, rules broken, people cutting in line.
There are always barriers for people trying to get the care they need. Some face more than others. But instead of working to create more accessible systems, we often criticize those who try to work around the system just to meet their basic needs. Sometimes caregivers must take creative or unconventional steps, especially when fighting for those who cannot advocate for themselves.
Jesus does not turn them away. He sees their faith and resolve. He also sees their love and care for their friend and extends compassion by healing the paralyzed man.
Interestingly, the legal experts in the story are not concerned with the caregiver’s methods either. They are concerned that Jesus essentially “upgrades” the paralyzed man’s status, seemingly without authority. In the ancient worldview, long-term illness was often tied to sin. But by declaring the man forgiven, Jesus removes blame for his condition and affirms that no one is ever excluded from God’s mercy. The healing becomes a sign that forgiveness and dignity are already granted.
In systems that are constantly overwhelmed and unable to meet every need, we still struggle with questions of who is deserving of care, who should be prioritized, who can afford it, and who is put on hold or cut off entirely. Such questions should not be necessary, and they never come with easy answers. But Jesus reminds us that when it comes to caring for basic human needs, there is no stigma, no shame, and no sin that can separate a person from the mercy and love of God. He shows us that healthcare is not a political issue, but a human one, and one that God cares deeply about.
Whose mat is God asking you to carry right now?
And in what ways do you need others to carry you?