But that you may know.

Mark 2:8-11, Now some of the scribes were sitting there, questioning in their hearts, “Why does this man speak like that? He is blaspheming! Who can forgive sins but God alone?” And immediately Jesus, perceiving in his spirit that they thus questioned within themselves, said to them, “Why do you question these things in your hearts? Which is easier, to say to the paralytic, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Rise, take up your bed and walk’? But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins”—he said to the paralytic— “I say to you, rise, pick up your bed, and go home.”

Everyone expected that Jesus would heal this man let down through a hole in the roof while he was preaching. Instead, he says “Son, your sins are forgiven.” The religious leaders took offense, for in doing this he was laying claim to his divinity. And as proof of his authority, he also heals the man. He forces a decision to recognize him not only as Messiah, but as the Son of Man, Son of God, God in flesh, the savior of the world!

Use us today in the work you have for us, that we may do everything in your name O Lord!

ESV Lectionary