Jake could not believe his eyes. 

As he peered out, Jakes saw the reflection of light on the ocean create the appearance of a million shimmering diamonds. He focused on the sound of the engine coming from the rear of the speedboat as he heard the captain’s baritone voice say, “Two minutes out. Get ready everyone.” Jake knew this was it. Was he ready? Or was the sweat on his brow just nerves? He knew it was now or never. If he was going to break free of his fear of the ocean, he had to jump.

And He stretched out His hand and touched him, saying, I am willing; be cleansed. And immediately the leprosy left him.

~ Luke 5:13 NASB

In biblical times, lepers, depending on the severity of their disease, were not received in any city because of their uncleanness (Leviticus 13:45-46). This left them feeling uncertain and ashamed of whom and what they had become. We can all attest to experiences that left us spiritually unclean and remorseful. No matter how unclean we may feel or appear to others, we can experience change with the soothing salve of Jesus’ love.

The leper asked for healing, but Jesus knew what he needed was love. Jesus could have healed with just a word. He could have healed from a great distance, as He did for the Roman centurion’s daughter (Matthew 8:5-13), but He decided to touch him. The Greek word for touch is hapteshi’ and indicates that Jesus embraced or took hold of him.

Jesus wants to embrace us too. He is not concerned with our condition; He just wants us to give it to Him.  He gives us the blueprint to love those who may seem unlovable and how we can deal with feelings of being overlooked. We must be willing to stretch out–to move past our comfort zone, scars, wounds, and the missing appendages of our lives. Right love leads us from comfort to our greatest need.

Heal me, O Lord, and I will be healed; Save me and I will be saved, For you are my praise.

~ Jeremiah 17:14 NASB

This leper was not welcomed by others, and his condition limited him, but he came into the city to find hope. Jesus desires to meet us where we are. 

How far will you go either to be in the presence of Jesus or to introduce someone else to Jesus? Who in your life needs His touch? 

Will you be a conduit of Jesus Christ’s transforming love?

Father God, help me to be a conduit of Your love. I surrender my will to Yours.

In Jesus’ name, amen.

Genre: Opening story, fiction; Body, Non-fiction

Copyright 2022: This Is Your Moment: Charles E. Maldon, Jr.: All Rights Reserved