Friend,
“I’m fine.”
What does that even mean? I’m ok? I’m good? I don’t want to be bothered? I’m just answering this way because it’s a habit? What does fine even mean?
One synonym for fine seems to be the best summation that I can find: passable. How are you today? I’m not excellent, so don’t rejoice with me. I’m not terrible, so don’t mourn with me. My life today is a solid C.
The only problem with that is that sometimes, you are lying.
You know that if you answer “fine” regularly, people will accept it and pass it on to the next person of concern. Ain’t nobody got time for your non-fine self.
There was a person in the gospels who tried to give Jesus the “I’m fine” answer. He had been lame for 38 years. You know, after decades of pain, you can normalize misery. “Fine” is truly in the eyes of the beholder.
Jesus asks him a powerful question, and his answer is telling.
Jesus asked him, “Would you like to get well?”
“I can’t, sir…” the sick man said.
I don’t blame the man for feeling that way. It’s been 38 years. If something has been the same since 1986, then you tend to believe it.
Can I tell you what happens next? (John 5) The man gives an excuse, and Jesus doesn’t listen to him. Instead, Jesus proclaims, “Stand up, pick up your mat, and walk!” And he was healed.
Two things, I want you to know today.
Would you like to be fine? Or would you like to get well?
Jesus still heals.
Love,
Aaron