By Ann E. Tanner

Ann E. Tanner, "Carrying Others to the Pool of Bethesda", Ensign, Jan. 2011, 62–65


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In the fifth chapter of John, the Savior goes to Jerusalem during the "feast of the Jews," or Passover (see verse 4), the first person immersed in the water would be completely healed.

We know that the pool attracted the "blind, halt, withered," and others who were sick or had disabilities (verse 3). The day the Savior visited was no different.

"And a certain man was there, which had an infirmity thirty and eight years.

"When Jesus saw him lie, and knew that he had been now a long time in that case, he saith unto him, Wilt thou be made whole?

"The impotent man answered him, Sir, I have no man, when the water is troubled, to put me into the pool: but while I am coming, another steppeth down before me.

"Jesus saith unto him, Rise, take up thy bed, and walk. And immediately the man was made whole, and took up his bed, and walked" (verses 5–9).

1.

He looked for one in need.

2.

He listened without criticism.

3.

He often gave anonymously.

4.

He understood and acknowledged grief or disease.

5.

He followed up with the sufferer.