In some ways when we read the Gospel telling about the ministry of Jesus, there is a mixture of doctor and priest in what is said and done. Take today’s gospel as a meditation. Put yourself in need before Jesus whom you are meeting because some good friends brought you to Him. You are sick and in need of healing. Your eyes are on Jesus and then you hear the words, ‘My child, your sins are forgiven.’ Would you be delighted beyond words or would you be maybe slightly sad that He had not cured your sickness? The truthful answer in prayer can only be yours and yours alone. In quiet prayer we can continue to listen to Jesus as pressure is put on him. Some scribes are upset and, to tell the truth, I can understand why. Their question is about how can “this man” do something that is only possible for God? To that extent they are right. Only God can forgive sins. But as we listen in prayer at the feet of Jesus, we hear him ask the scribes, ‘which of these is easier: to say to the paralytic, “Your sins are forgiven” or to say, “Get up, pick up your stretcher and walk?” This is more hopeful!