BY: Karelin James
TITLE: Of Course
CHAPTER READ: Matthew 8
SCRIPTURE SELECTED: Matthew 8:2-3
Suddenly, a leper walked up to Jesus and threw himself down before him in worship and said, “Lord, you have the power to heal me . . . if you really want to.”
Jesus reached out his hand and touched the leper and said, “Of course I want to heal you—be healed!” And instantly, all signs of leprosy[c] disappeared!
OBSERVATION:
The leper fell at Jesus’ feet and worshiped. He was all in. He knew the power Jesus had – he just didn’t know if he was worthy of Jesus’ time.
Jesus reassured him with the unthinkable – He touched him. How long had it been since he had human contact of that kind? And now, Jesus himself reached out to him and gave not only physical healing but also enabled him to return to his community. The surface need was healing. The deeper need was connection. Jesus meets both with one phrase…of course.
APPLICATION:
How often I acknowledge Jesus’ ability to heal and reconcile – in theory. But do I believe He will do it for me? Jesus’ answer is, “Of course.” He begins with a touch of compassion. All I need to do is come to Him, falling at His feet. As I worship, I remember who He is, and I get the courage to ask…am I worthy of all you can do for me? Of course…
PRAYER:
Lord, I come and fall at your feet today. You are all-powerful, all-loving. I hear you say, “of course” over my pain. Heal me with your touch of compassion. Touch my life where I know I need you, and also the deep needs I may not realize I have. Lead me back to my community whole and free. Amen.