Thursday, July 27, 2023

A cure for leprosy was developed decades ago. When viable medicines were not available, the disease was recognized as a sure slow death for those afflicted. They did not have hope. Lepers were removed from their loved ones and became outcasts. Although science has tamed the disease, there is still no medicine that removes fear, even disdain, from the minds of those who regard lepers with revulsion. People abhorred lepers during the time of Jesus. A stark contrast in His attitude toward the sick provides a glimpse of His power and immeasurable love. Responding to the leper’s timid statement, Jesus put out His hand and touched him, saying, “I am willing; be cleansed” (Luke 5:13 NKJV). Immediately the leper was completely healed. The word “willing” is an understatement here. Jesus was not only willing. He was truly able to heal. In the face of various problems, many people are willing to help but lack the resources. We are often hampered by lack of time to visit the sick or those in prison; we lack enough funds to feed countless who are hungry and poor. While our willingness exceeds our limited strength and finances, Jesus’ love is boundless. He always showed more than willingness. He chose to respond lovingly, then reached out to the leper and touched the afflicted body. Jesus gave us more than just His Word. On Calvary, He even gave us His own life by dying on the cross to save us from our sins.

Haggai has made it more clear to me that my profession is my pulpit. In the work I do, the cases I handle, and the people I regularly counsel, it has become an overriding goal to present the Gospel of Christ, which is the ultimate solution to our universal problems.