Evening, May 7, edited from Spurgeon’s Morning and Evening

“Get up, pick up your pallet and walk.” — John 5:8

Like many others, the handicapped man had been waiting for a wonder to be accomplished, and a sign to be given. He wearily watched the pool, but no angel came, or, at least, not for him; yet, thinking it to be his only chance, he still waited, and did not know that there was One near him whose word could heal him in a moment. Many are in the same plight: they are waiting for some particular emotion, remarkable impression, or celestial vision; they wait in vain and watch for naught. Even supposing that in a few cases remarkable signs are seen, it is certain these are rare, and in any case no man has a right to expect them; especially, no man who feels his inability to avail himself of the moving of the water even if it came. It is a very sad reflection that tens of thousands are now waiting in the use of methods, and regulations, and vows, and resolutions, and have so waited for time immemorial, in vain, utterly in vain. Meanwhile these poor souls forget the present Savior, who bids them to look to him and be saved. He could heal them at once, but they prefer to wait for an angel and a wonder. To trust him is the sure way to every blessing, and he is worthy of the most implicit confidence; but unbelief makes them prefer the cold porches of Bethesda to the warm embrace of his love. O that the Lord may turn his eye upon the multitudes who are in this situation tonight; may he forgive the slights which they put upon his divine power, and call them by that sweet constraining voice, to rise from the bed of despair, and in the energy of faith take up their bed and walk. O Lord, hear our prayer for all such at this calm hour of sunset, and before the day breaks may they look and live.

Dear reader, is there anything in this portion for you?