For thirty-eight years a sick man has been unable to reach the
healing waters of the pool with five porticoes called Bethesda. Jesus heals this
very desperate man, for he is himself the living spring, the healing pool with
the five porticoes. In his death on the cross this will all be made perfectly clear, for then
his body will be pierced in hands and feet and side – five gateways pouring out
blood and water, grace and new life for all. Ezekiel's vision will be fulfilled - the cross will be the tree bearing
Fruit that cannot fade or fail – Fruit that will be for us our true food
and medicine – the Body and Blood of our Savior and Lord.
Etching by Rembrandt.
