Being a disciple includes being a disciple-maker. This means being a laborer/worker. He has a harvest field, and according to Jesus, not many are working in it. He calls His 12 disciples and makes them apostles (sent-ones). He gives instructions to them that can help inform our mission as well.

God’s timing is impeccable. He is orchestrating events all around us, all of the time. He is all-powerful and always working. He chooses to use us in this amazing adventure, just as Jesus demonstrated in our text. On His way to raise the dead, a woman encounters Him and finds healing for her long-suffering. Some of us may easily look at this meeting, or things we encounter as a detour or a ‘distraction’ at times. However, both were set-up to happen when they did for the power of God to intervene!

We’ve already seen earlier the Centurion, in requesting healing for his servant, understanding the concept of Jesus’ authority. Matthew makes this a central theme in not only His healing ministry, as is here with the paralytic, but also in casting out two demon-possessed men. What if we were able to fully grasp Christ’s authority?

As we enter the third section of Matthew’s Gospel, the power of the Messiah is revealed. His healing ministry is front and center of this. Jesus heals a man with leprosy that says, “Lord if you are willing.” He heals a centurion’s servant who uttered, “Just say the word.” Peter’s mother-in-law, once healed, begins to wait upon Jesus.