This passage from Mark about the paralyzed man, usually leaves me thinking about the four men who brought the man to Jesus.  Mark tells us that when Jesus saw their faith, he healed the paralytic.  Those men were certainly a blessing for the paralyzed man. But the paralytic was a blessing for them as well.  His suffering became the opportunity for them to strengthen their faith, to exercise compassion, and to practice the virtue of charity. 
    When we encounter people suffering, how do we respond?  Many of us would rather not experience suffering, our own or any body else’s.  If we see a commercial about abused animals or starving children, we change the channel.  Suffering frightens some people and causes them to turn away.  Still others are deeply touched by the troubles of those around them.  Instead of turning away, they will get involved in whatever way they can.  For these people a brother or sister in need is an opportunity to love as Jesus did.
    Paul tells us that Jesus was not "yes" one time and "no" the next, but always "yes."  Becoming a "yes" to those in need is one of the challenges in today's readings.  God forgives us through Christ so that we can go out and bring his forgiveness and healing to the world.  Like the paralytic, we are told, your sins are forgiven, get up and walk!