MONDAY NIGHT AT THE PRISON 2-13-2012

According to Mark’s Gospel, a man who couldn’t walk was brought by his friends to Jesus. After being lowered through the roof, he found forgiveness and healing. I asked the group members where they found themselves in the story–on the mat, carrying someone, standing with the crowd….
One man said he was on the mat, and needed a fifth friend in the middle to hold him up. Another said he had only one friend, who was dragging him along the ground. We laughed at the mental pictures they created, but considered the truth in what was said. Several shared stories of people who carried the corners of their mats at difficult times in their lives–grandmothers, AA buddies, family and friends. We remembered times when we had dropped our corners and let someone down.
Finally someone shared his fear of getting out of prison, only to fall into old habits. Another man said that, when we get out, we should be sure our friends are carrying us toward Jesus, and not away from him. Good point.