Mark 1-3

The story of the crippled man and his faithful friends (Mark 2:1-12) has a number of surprises in the story. I am surprised that the friends were so persistent that they wouldn't let a crowd keep them away. It is surprising the first need Jesus addressed was the cripples forgiveness of sin and not his ailment. I'm sure the pharisees were surprised that Jesus made the connection between forgiveness of sins and healing of a cripple. The crowd was surely surprised that Jesus spoke both forgiveness and healing to a crippled man. What should not be a surprise is the message that Jesus re-enforced with this wonder; that he is the Son of God.
Stuart