Remove obstacles to make way for the Lord

Jesus had quickly gained a reputation as a teacher and healer. His growing reputation was followed with continually mounting crowds. Some in the crowds were teachers of the law, religious and political leaders, ordinary everyday people captivated by what was happening. And some were curious about what the hubbub was about. The crowds on this particular day were no different. The crowd was full of skeptics, seekers and the convinced. Little did they know this day they were about to see extraordinary things.

Five men joined this crowd in a unique manner. Four friends heard the reports that Jesus was in town. They knew of his reputation and had devised a plan and set out to act upon it. Their plan was simple. All four would carry the bed of their paralyzed friend to Jesus, he would heal him and they would all walk home. One can only imagine what their faces looked like when they rounded to corner of the house where Jesus was and immediately saw the crowds flooding the house with no way to get before him.

What now? Their intentions were noble. Their plan was well thought through. Now they face an unanticipated problem. Somewhere in the course of disappointment and frustration these four decided that it was unacceptable to continue living like they were living when the thing that could change their lives was under that roof.

The solution was simple -- remove the roof. It didn't matter what pieces of building material fell upon the crowds below these four were determined to put a skylight in the thatched roof of someone else's house that day. Having Jesus restore their friend's life was more important than any obstacle.

We each have expectations. We each set out every day with expectations, only to find them crushed on some days. There are unexpected obstacles that no one could see coming. Some days we are the one carrying the mat, others we are the one lying upon it. Either way, to see extraordinary things in our own lives we must remove the roof to get to the one who can restore. Nothing is more important than nourishing our souls before God. Do you want to see extraordinary things radiate from your life? Then remove every obstacle keeping you from walking with the Lord.

Rob Hurtgen is a husband, father, minister and writer. Read more from him at www.robhurtgen.wordpress.com.