The Paralysis Of Modern Medicine

The Paralysis Of Modern Medicine

Immediately, as everyone watched, the man jumped up, picked up his mat, and went home praising God. Everyone was gripped with great wonder and awe, and they praised God, exclaiming, “We have seen amazing things today!” Luke 5:25-26

When patients show up in the emergency room complaining that they are unable to walk, our protocol is to admit them into the hospital.

Over the next few days, we’ll run a battery of tests, including an MRI, a nerve conduction study, and a neurovascular workup. The physical therapist is consulted, and depending on the diagnosis, a usually long and laborious course of treatment follows. However, modern medicine is limited in what it can do. In some cases, the patient could be disabled for life. New treatments from stem cells that are created from the patient’s own blood may offer increased mobility, but the focus on stem cells is so new that it’s far from a sure thing.

But with Jesus, all things are certain. The outcome is known before the patient even arrives. Like everyone in the crowd who witnessed the events in today’s verses, I am gripped with great wonder and awe for the lame who are immediately healed, can walk, and even jump for joy.

There’s no doubt that as a doctor, Luke had seen and treated many patients who were lame. But neither he nor I have seen a man go from lame to dancing in an instant. This miracle once again proves that Jesus is in control of time and the physical world in which we live. It would take modern medicine months, if not years, for patients to achieve even a partial recovery. But Jesus heals instantly and completely.

Are you limping through life? Is it hard to put one foot in front of the other? Do you take one step forward and two steps back? Pick up your mat and set it at the feet of Jesus. Ask for his guidance. His loving arms and healing hands will embrace you and encourage you to move forward.

TODAY’S RX

The lame jump for joy and praise him. Shouldn’t we do the same?

When fear cripples me, Lord, and I cannot move forward, take my hand and help me to put one foot in front of the other. Your gentle guidance is all I need.