"The Advocates"
One of the most captivating stories from Jesus' healing ministry is recorded in Luke 5:17-26. A paralytic is lowered through the roof by friends who are determined to do whatever is necessary to present him to Jesus, in the belief that Jesus will heal him. The friends are advocates for this vulnerable man. Jesus is moved by their faith and their innovation. He also recognizes that the infirmed man's greatest need is the same as everyone's — a restored relationship with his heavenly Father. Thus, he first forgives the man's sins, taking care of his spirit before healing his body.
Luke's Gospel presents a powerful lesson for our contemporary health ministry. Our faith in Jesus' healing mission and our dedication, innovation and advocacy for all those who are in need of healing mirror that of the friends of the paralytic man.
In 2009, CHA introduced a new sculpture to honor the recipients of the Achievement Citation and CHA awards. The sculpture, "The Advocates," commemorates this story of healing from Luke. It was created for the association by sculptor Clay Enoch.