“Large crowds followed Jesus as he came down the mountainside. Suddenly, a man with leprosy approached him and knelt before him. “Lord,” the man said, “if you are willing, you can heal me and make me clean.” Jesus reached out and touched him. “I am willing,” he said. “Be healed!” And instantly the leprosy disappeared.”
Matthew 8:1-3 NLT
https://bible.com/bible/116/mat.8.1-3.NLT
Jesus shows us his willingness to meet us in the toughest of situations.
Reflection
Leprosy meant you were banned on the outside, not permitted to be with family and friends, and you were isolated. In the midst of large crowds seeking Jesus’ attention, this man risks everything to meet him, hoping for healing.
This outcast and diseased man comes in complete humility, kneeling down before Jesus and asks him to heal him, right in front of the large crowds.
Notice what Jesus doesn’t say. He doesn’t say “can’t you see I’m busy speaking and teaching to a lot of people right now” or “this isn’t a good time, could I set up a time to see what it is you want?”
What Jesus does say are three words “I am willing” and he heals him.
Encouragement
Jesus is willing to meet you right where you are at.
Are you willing to come humbly before him?
You can get down on your knees in humble prayer if you like and ask him what is in your heart to ask him for.
He is not too busy, and he isn’t looking for a better time. He is willing to meet you and help you right now.
Think of this man who was filled with disease and was isolated from those he loves. Let Jesus’ willingness to heal this man encourage you to draw close and ask for his help in your life.
He loves you.
Jesus is willing.
Prayer
Dear Jesus,
Thank you for being willing to meet and heal this diseased and isolated man.
Thank you for being willing to meet us where we are with our deepest challenges.
Right now, we come to you humbly, asking you to meet us at our deepest need.
We hear you saying to us the same words you spoke to this man: I am willing.
In your name, Jesus, we pray,
Amen
Ed McDowell