Accepted By The King

Matthew 8:2-3

A man with leprosy came and knelt before him and said, “Lord, if you are willing, you can make me clean.” Jesus reached out his hand and touched the man. “I am willing,” he said. “Be clean!” Immediately he was cured of his leprosy.

Leprosy sufferers were considered unclean and were forced to live apart from the community, announcing their presence loudly so people would not accidentally make contact with them. To live with leprosy was not only physically challenging; it forced people into a very isolated and lonely existence. This man showed great trust in Jesus. Not only was he willing to risk rejection; He knew that if Jesus was willing to heal him, He had the power to do it. Jesus responded with a brief but beautiful statement: “I am willing.” Then He reached out to touch a man who probably had not experienced human touch in a long time, and the man was immediately healed. If you feel you are living in physical or emotional isolation, know that Jesus is there for you. No matter what has touched your life to make you feel separate, He will welcome you with open arms.

THINK ABOUT IT

Isolation can lead to a feeling of being unaccepted and rejected, but in Christ we are invited into the Kingdom of God. Have you accepted His invitation to be a part of His family?

PRAYER

Heavenly Father, You were willing to heal the leper, and You are willing to heal and restore broken lives—renewing and making them whole. In Your family I find belonging and healing, and together we will praise You with gladness for all You have done. In Jesus’ name, amen.