The Call

Now he was teaching in one of the synagogues on the Sabbath. And behold, there was a woman who had had a disabling spirit for eighteen years. She was bent over and could not fully straighten herself. When Jesus saw her, he called her over and said to her, “Woman, you are freed from your disability.” And he laid his hands on her, and immediately she was made straight, and she glorified God. (Luke 13:10-13 ESV)

Have you ever suffered from back pain? After one operation and continuing chronic back pain over the years, I can certainly tell you a little about it, but there are many with much more severe problems than my own. Let us take, for example, the woman in the verses above.

The verses above tell us that this woman’s back had been bent over for eighteen years. Imagine the pain and suffering she endured. The verses also indicate that the source of her condition was a demon. Her body was bent double at the waist and, obviously, physicians could not help. In her own strength, she could not overcome her physical condition.

Imagine the scene: This woman comes to the synagogue – maybe because she hears Jesus will be teaching. She enters and sits down with the other women. Jesus is teaching and He sees her. He calls her to come to Him; declares she is free from her infirmity; lays His hands on her and she immediately stands up straight.

Personally, this story increases my faith and hope in Jesus Christ, because this woman had not even asked Jesus for healing. We can see here that God is already aware of our physical and spiritual needs. Whether it is physical, emotional, or spiritual infirmity – our God “is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen.” (Ephesians 3:20-21 ESV)

I do not know what problems you may be up against – but go to God! Go to God’s house. Go to church and listen quietly as your Pastor declares the Word of God. Read your Bible! Your spirit will be washed by the Word. (John 15:3 ESV, Ephesians 5:26 ESV) Pray – call on God and He will answer you. (Jeremiah 33:3 ESV) If healing is delayed or adversity remains, God will comfort you and walk with you through the fire and flood. (Isaiah 43:2 ESV) Only He can set you free and give you the strength to overcome the challenge you face. Perhaps, Jesus is calling you to come to Him today.