When a person makes wrong choices, someone is bound to say “they made their bed, now they can lay in it.” Not the most gracious or forgiving statement, but a reality that many have experienced. It is the “reaping what is sown” principle played out in the lives of many.

Jesus has a different response to sin. In Matthew 9, a paralytic is brought to him on a mat and his first response is to forgive his sin. The scribes are angry that he dared to offer forgiveness and the man is still paralyzed on the mat. Then, Jesus goes further and heals the man stating: Get up, pick up your mat, and go home.”

Do you see the difference – it’s the mat. The world would leave someone on the mat, because it was their choices that put them there. Jesus forgives and provides healing for the circumstances.

The mat is not left behind – it is carried with him. Some choices will leave a permanent reminder. But there is freedom and the ability to get back up and walk. Jesus doesn’t leave us on the mat after we fail and sin. He forgives and tells us to get back up.

Have you made some bad choices that have left you on a mat of guilt or shame. Take it to Jesus – you’ll find forgiveness and the ability to move into your future.

“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:9)