It was a bold move to dig up the roof (Mark 2:1-5), but the four men were full of dogged determination. Their paralyzed friend would see Jesus. Or more accurately, Jesus would see their friend. The Bible states that upon seeing their faith, Jesus declared, “Son, your sins are forgiven.” It comes across not so much as a response to a request as it does an announcement—of a fact that is already in place.
Nearly every state has a web site cataloging a long list of individuals for which the state is holding money—cold, hard cash. The sources of these funds vary, but they are primarily tax and mortgage premium refunds, and estate settlements. I have checked the sites of the states where I’ve lived, wondering if I overlooked something. No such luck for me.
I suppose the main reason that hundreds, or perhaps, even thousands of dollars go unclaimed is because the rightful beneficiaries are unaware of its existence, and have never had the inkling it was available. No one ever announced the good news to them.
Could it be the wonderful good news of forgiveness is an unknown quantity to many? That this relief for the burdens of guilt and shame goes unclaimed for lack of awareness? For lack of hearing the announcement—of a fact that is already in place? For lack of announcers?
Lord, I am so grateful for your forgiveness—and for those who announced it to me so long ago. Help me today to announce to someone that their sins are forgiven. The guilt can be gone; the burden can be banished.
Announcers needed. No auditions necessary.
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