Today we are reading Matthew 8. In this chapter we read about Jesus early ministry. “When he came down from the mountain, great crowds followed him. And behold, a leper came to him and knelt before him, saying, “Lord, if you will, you can make me clean.” And Jesus stretched out his hand and touched him, saying, “I will; be clean.” And immediately his leprosy was cleansed. And Jesus said to him, “See that you say nothing to anyone, but go, show yourself to the priest and offer the gift that Moses commanded, for a proof to them.””
Matthew 8:1-4 ESV When we read this story we are struck by the fact that if Jesus was willing people were healed. The custom of the day was to avoid a person with leprosy. Jesus reached out and touched the man—unheard of! Jesus did not catch leprosy. The man was immediately healed. Sometimes I wonder why more people are not healed today. On the other hand, everyone who confesses their sin is immediately forgiven. This healing from sin is much greater than a temporary physical healing. How come our reaction to forgiveness is so much less than our reaction to a physical healing? May God give you an appreciation for the gift Jesus died to give. Pastor Tim
