Theme: We sometimes follow routines that are a substitute for a living. Instead of having a life of our own, we give up and become passive. In fact, that passivity can be a deceptive and manipulative style of control. Jesus' question to the paralytic by the pool was, "Do you want to be healed?" Do you want to get a life, or is life as you now live it a means of avoidance and control that you find too comfortable to give up?

Setting for the Sermon Monologue: The scripture is a lectionary reading. How does it feel to be a paralytic with little hope of being healed, and to find yourself singled out by an unknown healer with a challenge?

Poolside Blessing: Monologue of a Paralytic

Thirty-eight years I lay beside that pool.Each morning friends or family members brought me there.I think they …