What Weighs You Down?
by Keri Wyatt Kent
posted 3/21/2008
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Maybe your affliction is not physical but emotional or spiritual. Even though others may not be able to see it, it's still painful. It's still keeping you from reaching your full potential.
This woman's society did not value her—in fact, they likely considered her infirmity a punishment for some sin she had committed. Jesus refutes that by his words and his actions. He restores her not only to physical health, but to being an active participant in the community of worship.
Imagine being that woman, standing up straight for the first time in almost two decades. Picture her expression as she's finally able to straighten and raise her arms—and the first thing she does with them is lift them up in praise to God.
There have been times that I have lived bent over and small in certain areas of my life. I didn't realize it—I was just trying to avoid conflict, to make certain people happy. In a way, I took the path of least resistance, not wanting to stand up for myself because I was afraid. But doing so hindered me from standing up and praising God with my life and my actions. It prevented me from looking people in the eye and feeling the confidence that comes from knowing I am God's beloved daughter.
Jesus sees our struggles and wants to set us free. His words to that woman are his words to you: "You are set free" (v. 12 TNIV)!
This encounter with Jesus offers hope to anyone who is weary, burdened, and weighed down. He wants to set us free, to lift us up so we can stand up straight, look him in the eyes, and praise him with all of our strength.
Keri Wyatt Kent is the author of six books, and is a sought-after speaker and retreat leader (www.keriwyattkent.com). She will teach two breakout sessions at this year's Willow Creek Children's Ministry Conference, April 23-25. This column was adapted in part from her book Oxygen: Deep Breathing for the Soul.
Copyright © 2008 Promiseland.
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