Reflection on Mark 1:40-45

Scripture
Jesus felt sorry for the man. So he put his hand on him and said “I do want to. You are well.”

Observation
A man with leprosy breaks law and custom to approach Jesus. He is sure that Jesus can heal him, but not so sure that Jesus would want to.

Shame. Unworthiness. Feeling that God is reluctant.

Religion tells us that God only blesses good people; you have to earn the favour of the deity.

God's graces, His blessings, are poured out on everyone who can receive them. He wants to give freely, not just reward the faithful.

Application
For many years I believed, deep down in my heart, that I wasn't good enough. I didn't deserve success as a pastor (whatever is meant by “success”), that somehow my prayers weren't as good an anyone else's.

But it's not about my worthiness to have prayers answered. It is all about Jesus.

If Jesus can cope with blessing a leper, he can probably cope with blessing me too. It's not about the quality of my prayers or the purity of my faith, or what I can do for God.

It's all about His grace, His desire to love me.

Prayer
What a wonderful God you are! Your ability to bless is limited only by my ability to receive. Father let me be confident in your love for me today and always. Amen.