The paralyzed man probably thought, “If I could only walk, then I’d be happy.” Four friends carried him to the teacher. Jesus looked at him and knew that this man’s greatest need was not to walk in this life but to walk with him in eternal life. So Jesus said, “Son, your sins are forgiven” (Mark 2:5).

How would you finish this phrase? Jesus, if only I had _____, then I’d be happy. Have you ever noticed that when you get the thing you think you want, another pops up in its place that keeps you from being content? The new job brings new stress. The longed-for spouse is only semi-perfect. You find retirement is not the key to fulfillment. You are free from cancer, but there is still something that nags at happiness. 

Do you want to know what it is? Sin. The source of all your troubles is not outside of you but inside. Jesus sees that. He sees the sin that no one knows about but you can’t forget. He sees the sin that paralyzes you from getting up and really living life. Jesus sees your real suffering. You come to him with a million wishes, but he loves you too much to grant all those. Instead, he gives you better. Whatever it is, take it to Jesus. He took care of your greatest need. He suffered the cross so he could say to you, “My child, your sins are forgiven.”