“Sir”, he said, “if you want to, you can cure me”.
Matthew 8: 1 – 4
Today’s gospel passage tells the story of a leper who approached Jesus and he made a simple, humble plea: “Sir”, he said, “if you want to, you can cure me”. Jesus stretched out His hand and touched him saying, “Of course, I want to! Be cured!”
The first lesson from this narrative is the importance of trusting in the power and willingness of God to intervene in our lives. Despite our circumstances or our past, we must be free to approach the Lord with faith, believing that He is both able and willing to heal us.
The second lesson is Jesus’ compassion. Compassion moves us to reach out to those who suffer. We must trust in Jesus’ compassion to care for us, especially when we feel alone or have no other recourse or assurance.
And the third lesson is, Jesus touched the leper. Touch is important. It conveys acceptance, comfort, closeness and love. The Lord touched the lives of so many and brought them peace.
Trust that He will do the same for us today.