Luke 5:18-19
And, behold, men brought in a bed a man which was taken with a palsy: and they sought means to bring him in, and to lay him before him.  And when they could not find by what way they might bring him in because of the multitude, they went upon the housetop, and let him down through the tiling with his couch into the midst before Jesus.

“Don’t ever give up.”  “Where there’s a will, there’s a way.”  “Persistence pays off.”  These may be clichés, but there is some truth in them.  People are often filled with resolve and determination that at times can seem superhuman, especially when whatever they are pursuing is important or valuable to them.  And so these men would not be deterred because what they were doing was important to them.  It mattered greatly to all involved that they be successful with their mission.

If it had been a stranger they had seen on the way, they may have tried to help but given up when the multitude blocked their way.  If it had been something smaller that plagued their friend, they may have gone home and tried again another day.  But this wasn’t a stranger, but a friend, someone they obviously cared about very much.  And his need was great, and so their determination was, also.  This wasn’t something they took lightly, but a significant problem.  This wasn’t someone to be disposed of or cast aside, but someone valuable who mattered to them.

Their love and concern was great, so it compelled them on when they might have otherwise been tempted to give up.  Their love was real, and so they would not let a crowded house keep them away.  Their hope and faith was in Jesus and His power, and so they would not be turned aside.  Because of all this, they would do whatever was necessary.  They would go to extremes.  They would think outside the box a little bit and put some effort into it and keep going no matter what.  They didn’t care what others would say or the cost they incurred breaking through someone’s roof.  What mattered was bringing their sick friend to Jesus so he could be healed.

What is our motivation, and is it enough to keep us going when obstacles arise?  Is it love that brings us to Jesus, a strong desire just to know Him and be with Him?  Is it love that causes us to serve others and desire to help physically or emotionally or even to lead others to the Lord?  Will that drive us to go above and beyond?  Will we be willing to go against the grain and do whatever it takes no matter the cost?  There are lives at stake, after all.  There are hurting people.  There are souls heading for hell.  Are they important and valuable enough to us to step in and step up for them?