In today’s Gospel, Jesus demonstrates his divine authority and compassion by cleansing a despised and untouchable leper, showing that no one is beyond his mercy. This act, which follows the Sermon on the Mount, highlights Jesus’ willingness to heal, his defiance of social and religious stigmas, and his power to restore the marginalized. The leper approaches Jesus with humility and faith despite being socially and legally isolated. He worships him and says, “Lord, if you are willing, you can make me clean.” Instead of avoiding the unclean man, Jesus responds with compassion. Jesus declares, “I am willing.” This reveals that his power is matched by his deep desire to restore us from spiritual and physical brokenness. The healing is instant and complete, displaying Jesus’ authority even over disease. Let us trust in Christ’s willingness to cleanse our own “leprous” hearts and to extend that same compassion to the ‘outcasts’ we encounter in our society.

PRAYER: Abba Father, may we always seek you in spite of our brokenness. Amen.