Would You Throw Someone Down a Chimney?

I had the privelege of serving in a 1st grade LifeGroup today at our church. As the 14 little, bright-eyed cuties gathered around, we discussed the story of the four friends who brought the paralyzed man to Jesus. The 4 friends climbed the roof and attempted to lower the man down to Jesus because there was no room.
As I told the story, I stopped and asked what we would do if we were the 4 men. How would we lower the man through the ceiling? You could see their wheels turning. One little boy decided it would be easy. Since the house was full, people could reach up and catch him. Another little girl, chimed in, "We could use rope." Suddenly a bright boy sprang from his knees and shouted, "We could throw him down the chimney. He's paralyzed so he wouldn't feel it anyway!"
That might be one way to bring our friends to Jesus, but there must be a simpler alternative. There are people around us every day who are desperate for hope, help, answers, and love. Jesus is what they need. Are we a friend who cares so much that we will do whatever it takes to bring our friends to Jesus? Do we notice hurting people? Are we willing to stop our predetermined plans to spend time with them? Will we physically give the energy and resources necessary? I''m not suggesting we pick them up and throw them down chimneys, but let's be aware of those who need Jesus & offer the kind word, an invitation to church, or a listening ear!

"Being unable to get to Jesus because of the crowd, they removed the roof above Him; and when they had dug an opening, they let down the pallet on which the paralytic was lying. And Jesus seeing their faith said, 'Your sins are forgiven.'" Mark 2:4-5