And when, because of the crowd, they could not come near Him, they removed the roof above where He was, and after making an opening, they lowered the mat on which the paralytic was lying.
This verse shows the perseverance and determination of faith. The crowd became an obstacle for them, but they did not give up and found a new way to bring the sick man before Christ. Their action was bold and unusual, but at its foundation was the confidence that if only they could reach the Lord’s presence, they would receive saving help. This episode teaches that true faith does not stop in the face of outward difficulties. When confidence is born in a person that his true help is with Christ, he no longer stops before hardships, but, overcoming every obstacle, strives to reach Him. Their step also reminds us of steadfast prayer, which does not cease until it reaches the mercy of God.