Week 3: Anticipate Healing

Scripture Readings:

Isaiah 35:4-7a - Prophecy of a Messiah who Heals
John 9:1-42 - A Blind Man is Healed by Jesus

How many times in our lives have we been blind to the truth, have we been wounded, have we hurt or been unable to fully live into the image of God in which we were created? When have we valued rules or procedures more than compassion? God is with us – always – and God heals.

Master Healer 

God of All Healing,
You who knit us together in the womb of a woman,
fashioning our bodies in intricate ways –
fearfully and wonderfully made,
bearers of the image and likeness of the Creator,
temples of the Holy One –
you know every cell and sinew.

When we long for healing beyond the bounds of
human hands and medicine,
beyond the threshold of disease and diagnosis,
we turn to you.

You are the Master Healer.

When you touch we are healed.
When you touch we are whole.
When you touch we are restored.

Touch, God of all healing, touch. Amen.

– by LaTrellle Miller Easterling, April 29, 2014

Moment of Reflection:

What restoration and healing are you longing for? What healing is necessary in the community around you and in the world? Where do our eyes need to be opened to fuller understanding of God’s intention for the beloved community?

If you are doing this study in a small group, take turns sharing your responses. After each person speaks, the group will respond:
“Be strong! Don’t fear! May God’s mighty works be displayed in you.” 

After you have finished sharing, discuss:

• How would you explain to someone who is new to the church what it means to feel the healing touch of God?
• What do we risk when we continue to walk in spiritual blindness?
• In what areas do you think the church today is blind? How might your faith community seek a miracle and help restore healing and wholeness to those in your midst and beyond?

Closing Hymn:

“Breathe on Me, Breath of God,” UMH #420