Proper 21 (G)

Matthew 9:1-8
1 And getting into a boat he crossed over and came to his own city. 2 And behold, some people brought to him a paralytic, lying on a bed. And when Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, “Take heart, my son; your sins are forgiven.” 3 And behold, some of the scribes said to themselves, “This man is blaspheming.” 4 But Jesus, knowing their thoughts, said, “Why do you think evil in your hearts? 5 For which is easier, to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Rise and walk’? 6 But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins”—he then said to the paralytic—“Rise, pick up your bed and go home.” 7 And he rose and went home. 8 When the crowds saw it, they were afraid, and they glorified God, who had given such authority to men.
The Holy Bible : English standard version. 2001 (Mt 9:1-8). Wheaton: Standard Bible Society.

Take heart your sins are forgiven. Jesus does not heal the paralytic right away. Jesus first forgives him all his sins. It is only when he is challenged by the thoughts of the Scribes that he proves his words.

Just as sin has killed us, Christ gives us new life. We are paralyzed by sin and selfish thoughts. We are trapped and bound in the Devil's Kingdom. On our own humans are unable to do anything good. Except there was one human who came to give forgiveness and redemption. Jesus Christ died for the forgiveness of our sins.

The Christ has the power to forgive sins. If you have any questions just look at what he does. It is then seen that he gives this same authority to men. Jesus sends out his disciples to forgive sins. God has called his priests to forgive sins. Therefore, know that your sins have been forgiven in Christ Jesus our Lord. "Pick up your bed and go home," or in other words Go and sin no more. Give glory to God.