Shortly after Jesus began his ministry, he visited Simon's home and healed his bedridden mother-in-law.
Those who witnessed this were astonished. Word spread like wildfire — there was a miracle healer at Simon’s house. By nightfall, the whole city had gathered around the front door, having brought all who were sick or demon possessed.
They wanted what Jesus gave Simon’s mother-in-law. Jesus obliged them and healed as many as he could, and the people clamored for more.
It seems the mindset alive in that day continues today. People hear of the way Jesus will heal people of their afflictions, turn to him, and receive the kind of spiritual, emotional and oftentimes physical healing they desire.
Many are grateful, but others clamor for more; they are not satisfied. The gratitude they felt for the gift they received wears off quickly and they look for the next freebie.
Yes, Jesus forgives our sins, promises that he will never abandon us in this lifetime, and promises eternal life in heaven. But the relationship we enter with Jesus is not about what we can get from him.
Some people mistakenly believe that once they declare Jesus as their Lord and Savior, he becomes their personal wish-granter and is supposed to give them anything they desire.
Instead of asking, “What has Jesus done for me lately?” the question should be, “What have I done for Jesus lately?”
Ask yourself how you have helped build Jesus' kingdom, how you have praised him, how you live in gratitude for the ultimate gift anyone could receive — forgiveness for your sins.
If you ask Jesus for more than you give to him, it’s time to change your focus.
The Rev. Mark Broadhead is pastor at Laurel Hill Presbyterian Church and First Presbyterian Church of Crestview.
This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: BROADHEAD: What have you done for Jesus lately?