Lenten Reader | Day 15

March 5th, 2021

Set Free

On a Sabbath Jesus was teaching in one of the synagogues, and a woman was there who had been crippled by a spirit for eighteen years. She was bent over and could not straighten up at all. When Jesus saw her, he called her forward and said to her, “Woman, you are set free from your infirmity.” Then he put his hands on her, and immediately she straightened up and praised God.

- Luke 13:10-13

When reading these verses there is no question that the woman in this story is physically bound. We are told she is "set free". She does not use the hold Satan has on her body as an excuse to keep her away but goes seeking the words of Jesus. It is easy to see when a physical healing takes place, but in what other ways can we be bound?

For a long time, I was bound with hurt and anger by a person that had been a part of dividing an important friendship. While it was hard, when I was able to offer forgiveness my burden was set free. Not only was I then able to reconnect with both individuals, but it also led me to a much better place in life.

Think of things in your life that may have you bound; physically, mentally, spiritually, financially? How can you hand these things over to God? Can you offer forgiveness, as he forgives us? Can you put your trust in him and let go of your worries and anxieties? Are your financial decisions based on what you need or what you want? Can you hand these things over?

Being "set free" brings such a calm and peace to my mind and soul. I do not need to bear my burdens because I serve a loving, all-consuming God. Don't get me wrong – it is an ongoing process. Each day I ask God to help me be a better person and to take control of my actions.

Take time to pray for God's insight as to what could have a hold on you and how spending time with him could set you free.

-Traci Click