Many people came to Jesus seeking physical health and healing.  In each case, Jesus demonstrated care not only for their physical needs, but also for their spiritual and emotional needs.  In this weeks passage, Jesus heals a man covered with leprosy.  He had the power and authority to declare him healed and move on but this story is much more intimate than that.  As you read through the text, take your time with it, allow the images to form in your mind.  Imagine Jesus bending down to touch this "untouchable" man as he lay face down on the ground begging for healing.  Ponder the commands that Jesus gave to the man after He had healed his leprosy.  Notice what emotions and reactions are stirred up inside of you as this story takes life.  If you are willing, share some of your thoughts with us by commenting below.

Luke 5:12-16
While Jesus was in one of the towns, a man came along who was covered with leprosy. When he saw Jesus, he fell with his face to the ground and begged him, "Lord, if you are willing, you can make me clean."Jesus reached out his hand and touched the man. "I am willing," he said. "Be clean!" And immediately the leprosy left him.Then Jesus ordered him, "Don't tell anyone, but go, show yourself to the priest and offer the sacrifices that Moses commanded for your cleansing, as a testimony to them."Yet the news about him spread all the more, so that crowds of people came to hear him and to be healed of their sicknesses. But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.

For Reflection:
• What did you hear as you read the text? What stands out to you?
• Place yourself in the story. Who are you? What is happening around and in you?
• Journal your prayer that flows out of your meditation and contemplation of this passage.