1 Samuel 4:1-11 PSALM 44; MARK 1:40-45
Jesus cures a leper in today’s Gospel passage. In the Biblical sense, leprosy was described as a swelling of the skin, with crust and whitish patch, which severity might have been evaluated by the depth of the affected skin. It leaves the leper horrible, disfigured and mutilated. Spiritually, leprosy is a type of sin that leaves us horrible to behold, disfigured and mutilated. Just as Leprosy is contagious, sin is also very contagious. 1 Cor. 15:33 says “…Bad company corrupts good character.” Sin spreads, trends and corrupts all who are not spiritually watchful and careful. Jesus cured the leper; He has the power also to cure our spiritual leprosies. But like the Leper we must go to Him; we must ask Him to forgive us and make us clean. In the first reading the Israelite went to war with the Ark of God yet they were defeated. Why? Their sin and disobedience together with the atrocities of Hophni and Phinehas. Sin brings defeat; while holiness is victorious! Beloved, now is the best time to be made whole. 1 Pet.1:15 says “… Be holy, as your heavenly Father is holy. “O that today you would listen to his voice do not harden your hearts” (Heb.3:15).
LET US PRAY
Purify me with hyssop and I shall be clean; wash me and I shall be whiter than snow. Remove every ungodly thought, motivation or intention that resides within me. Cleanse me so that I can be made righteous in Jesus’ name. Amen
