Reflection: Matthew 8:1-4

12th Friday in Ordinary Time – Matthew 8:1-4

In today’s Gospel, Jesus comes down from the mountain. As always, a great crowd followed him. A leper approached Jesus. He paid Jesus homage and then said: “Lord, if you wish, you can make me clean!” Apparently, the leper had heard of the miracles and cures that Jesus had done.

Without any hesitation, Jesus responded to the leper’s request. He reached out his hand and gently touched the man and said: “I will do as you ask. Be made clean!” Immediately, the leper was cured! Jesus then told the man not to tell anyone what had happened. He instructed him to go to the temple and show himself to the priest to prove that he truly had been healed of his leprosy. Then the priest could declare that this man once again was “clean.” This would enable the leper to return to his family, his community and his livelihood.

Jesus also instructed the man to “offer the gift that Moses prescribed.” This gift would serve as a reminder to the people that this outcast once again was in full communion with Israel. After many years of having to separate himself from his family and community, the healed leper once again could worship in the temple. And with this healing, the leper also regained his self-respect and his dignity.

What is your “leprosy,” your “dis-ease?” What keeps you or separates you from others? I assume we all have some form of “leprosy” or “dis-ease.” What is the healing you desire? I am sure we would love to be healed instantly. However, most healing is slow and natural and it takes time. And typically, it takes much more time than we would like.

Have you gone to Jesus despite your “leprosy?” Or do you stay separated from Jesus and others out of shame or fear? Jesus longs for us to come to him. Jesus loved the “untouchables.” He sought them out and often made them whole again. He healed not only their leprosy, He also healed their shame, fear and pain!

Today, may we have the faith to reach out to Jesus and ask him to heal us! Jesus will gently touch us and heal us with his love and healing power! Jesus will not fail us!