Scripture: John 5:13 (ESV) – “Now the man who had been healed did not know who it was, for Jesus had withdrawn, as there was a crowd in the place.”
This verse adds a surprising layer to the story. The man who had just been healed did not even know who Jesus was. He had received a miracle but had not yet come to faith in the One who gave it. Jesus had slipped away quietly into the crowd, leaving the man with healing—but without yet knowing the Healer.
Martin Luther reflects often on how God sometimes deals with us in this way—granting us blessings and mercies even before we fully recognize His hand. This underscores the nature of grace: unearned, unasked for, often even unrecognized at first. God is good not because we deserve it or understand it, but because He is gracious by nature.
Jesus’ quiet withdrawal also shows His humility and purpose. He did not heal to draw a crowd or seek admiration, but out of pure compassion. And though the man did not know who Jesus was in that moment, Jesus knew him. He met his need first—and would soon return to address his soul.
This verse invites us to reflect on how many times God has acted in our lives before we knew Him. It also challenges us to consider: are we satisfied with the gift, or are we seeking the Giver? Jesus desires more than to heal our bodies—He wants to restore our souls and bring us into relationship with Him.
Reflection Questions:
- Why do you think Jesus withdrew after healing the man instead of immediately revealing Himself?
- Have you ever realized in hindsight that God was working in your life before you recognized Him?
- What steps can you take to move beyond enjoying God’s blessings to truly knowing the One who gives them?
Prayer:
Gracious Lord, thank You for Your kindness that often reaches us before we even know You. Help us not to be content with blessings alone, but to seek the Giver. Open our eyes to see how You’ve been at work in our lives, even when we were unaware. Draw us near, not just for what You can do, but for who You are. In Your name, Amen.
This devotional is based on John 5:13, with themes drawn from Martin Luther’s reflections on grace and the hidden ways God works.
Covenant Presbyterian Church 