Scripture: John 5:5 (ESV)
“One man was there who had been an invalid for thirty-eight years.”
This verse focuses our attention on one man among the multitude. Thirty-eight years—nearly four decades—he had suffered, unable to walk, dependent on others, and waiting for hope. His presence at the pool shows both his desperation and persistence. He had not given up entirely—but his strength and expectation were undoubtedly worn thin.
J.C. Ryle draws attention to the man’s long-term suffering as a lesson in patience and hope. “Few can imagine the heart-sickness of hope deferred,” Ryle writes, “but grace can keep faith alive even in the longest trial.” He encourages us to remember that affliction, even when prolonged, does not disqualify us from Christ’s mercy—it may, in fact, prepare us to receive it more fully.
John Calvin highlights that Jesus deliberately chooses this man out of all the others. Calvin notes, “He was not the only one who needed help, but Christ singles him out to show that healing is a matter of sovereign grace, not human deserving.” Jesus could have healed the entire crowd, but instead, He directs His mercy to one—not because of merit, but because of divine purpose.
This man’s condition also reminds us of our own spiritual condition apart from Christ—paralyzed, helpless, and unable to rise on our own. His body reflected what our souls are like until Christ speaks life into us. Just as this man couldn’t lift himself to the water, so we cannot lift ourselves to salvation.
But this verse does more than describe a problem—it sets the stage for a miracle. After 38 years of hopeless waiting, the Savior is about to speak.
Reflection Questions:
- What does this man’s long suffering teach you about waiting on God?
- Do you see prolonged trials as a sign of God’s absence—or as an opportunity for His glory?
- Where in your life do you need to remember that God’s mercy is sovereign, not earned?
Prayer:
Lord, thank You that no length of suffering can place us beyond Your reach. You see those who have waited for years. You draw near to the weak and weary. Teach us to trust in Your timing and to remember that Your mercy is not bound by our merit or endurance. Strengthen those who are still waiting, and prepare their hearts for Your healing word. In Your name, Amen.
Covenant Presbyterian Church 