And a woman was there who had been crippled by a spirit for eighteen years. She was bent over and could not straighten up at all. When Jesus saw, he called her forward and said to her, “Woman, you are set free from your infirmity.

- Luke 13: 11-12 NIV

This passage stirred me.

Here’s a woman crippled for years by a “spirit” that debilitated her.

The long- suffering of mental, emotional, and physical anguish she must have endured. She may have been isolated or ostracized. I’m sure she had moments when she felt hopeless with little or no confidence.

Can you relate? I’m sure we all can.

But it says ”a woman was there” …which means she was present, found amongst those gathered in the synagogue.

In her condition, with all her frailties, she showed up! She was there!

She might have been in a public place, but God heard the tears and prayers spoken from the secret places of her heart.

And Jesus saw her and called her forward.

Eighteen long years ended that day when her ‘suddenly’ came!

How reassuring it is to remain steadfast and to know that with Jesus, our suddenly day will come too!

We are all called to a hope irrespective of time or condition and when our suddenly comes, people will see the glory of God in it.

It is by His hand, His mercy, His vision and His love for us. Just as He saw her, He sees you my friend and He calls you forward towards your suddenly!

This poor woman was physically disabled; bent over, unable to stand upright. In other scriptural versions, it’s written that she was unable to even look forward.

Have you ever felt “bent outta shape” as the old saying says? A situation where the end seemed no- where in sight? Where you just felt stuck in a position of defeat and deep in desperation?

Where months turned to years and your waiting season has you asking what you were waiting for? I know I have!

That’s why it stirred my heart because I can relate to this woman. She is so many of us! And what renewed hope it gives us to know that Jesus straightens us out! He makes crooked paths straight and sets the captives free! He is the waymaker and our redeemer!

Friend, no condition or report, not your present or your past, no force that comes against you can separate you from the unconditional, redemptive and restorative power of God. Praise the Lord!

With Love,
Jasmine Marrero