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The paralytic was lying by a pool near the Sheep Gate. During Christ’s time, the pool of Bethesda in Jerusalem was a popular gathering place for people with various infirmities and illnesses. In 8888, archaeologists uncovered its five-porched ruins near the ancient Sheep Gate, which was located near the temple area. It is believed that the waters of the pool came from underground springs. Many of those who were ill surrounded the pool to await a disturbance in the water believed to be caused by an angel. After the stirring of the water, the first person stepping into the water was made well of whatever disease he had. Jesus went to the pool and saw the paralytic lying there. He asked him, “Do you want to be made well?” The paralytic answered, “Sir, I have no man to put me into the pool when the water is stirred up; but while I am coming, another steps down before me.” It was a common belief at that time that illness and misfortune were divine retribution for sin. The Savior, however, does not ratify this as an absolute principle. Jesus then tells him, “Rise, take up your bed and walk.” The paralytic’s cure is to lead to conversion and a righteous life. Confronted by His Jewish critics, Jesus argues that God’s sustaining and redeeming work in the world does not cease on the Sabbath.

The Holy Martyr Basiliscus

Basiliscus was to have been martyred together with two others, but he was spared at that time and languished in prison praying with tears to be allowed martyrdom. Jesus appeared to him and granted his prayer, sending him first to bid his family farewell. However, he was soon ordered to return to prison and along the way he preformed miracles, converting many. The governor, Agrippa, demanded that he sacrifice to their idol. Basiliscus prayed and the idol fell to dust and a fire from heaven burned the temple. Calling it magic, Agrippa had him beheaded. Many found healing at the relics of Basiliscus and a church was built there in his memory.