“Sir,” the invalid replied, “I have no one to help me into the pool when the water is stirred. While I am trying to get in, someone else goes down ahead of me.” — John 5:7

In this verse, we encounter a man who has been an invalid for thirty-eight years, lying by the Pool of Bethesda. His situation is one of profound helplessness, not only due to his physical condition but also because of the societal and relational isolation he experiences. His response to Jesus’ question reveals his deep-seated despair and resignation to his circumstances. He has no one to assist him, and others continuously precede him in accessing the opportunity for healing.

Reflecting on this verse, it becomes apparent how often we, too, might find ourselves in situations where we feel stuck, helpless, or left behind. Life can sometimes feel like a race where others seem to have the upper hand, leaving us in a perpetual state of waiting and hoping for change. The invalid’s predicament is a poignant reminder of the human need for community and support. His lament highlights the importance of having people around us who are willing to help, encourage, and uplift us in times of need.

This passage also challenges us to examine our own roles in the lives of others. Are we the ones stepping over the invalid to reach our own goals, or are we stopping to lend a hand? In a world that often prioritizes individual success over collective well-being, this story prompts us to look beyond our own needs and to become active participants in the healing and wholeness of those around us. It calls us to be the kind of people who notice the overlooked and extend a hand to those who find themselves at the margins.

Ultimately, the encounter at the Pool of Bethesda is a call to action. It invites us to embody compassion, to be conduits of grace, and to transform the despair of others into hope. As we reflect on this verse, may we strive to be the ones who help others into the pool, sharing in the blessings of healing and community.