Defeated Not Destroyed

~~~ 1 Samuel 4:1-11 ~~~ Psalm 44 ~~~ Mark 1:40-45 ~~~

Redeem us, Lord, because of your mercy.

The Leper's curse...

he must wear torn clothes , let his hair be unkempt, 

cover the lower part of his face and call out 'Unclean! unclean!' 

As long as he is sick with skin sores he remains unclean. 

He must live outside the community.

(Leviticus 13: 45-46)

Can you imagine being in such a state?

Can you imagine the feelings of humility and shame?

Can you imagine such harsh treatment for an illness?
Can you imagine the feelings of defeat?
Your health in many ways defines who you are.

The leper came to Jesus seeking a cure.

He wanted to be healed.

He humbly knelt before Jesus.

“If you wish, you can make me clean.”

The leper comes in faith to Jesus. 

He believes Jesus has the power to heal.

The leper was willing to accept the will of Jesus.

Sometimes it is very difficult to accept the will of God,

especially when you want to be cured of something like leprosy.

Jesus could have legitimately sent the leper away 

for he was 'unclean'.

Moved with pity Jesus stretched out his hand

touched the leper and said to him...

“I do will it. Be made clean.”

How can this cured leper not share his healing with 

everyone he met along the way to the priests?

This poor leper was beside himself with joy and excitement.
This disease had ravaged his body for years;
now he is suddenly and completely healed.

The leper's enthusiasm resulted in Jesus
having to stay outside of the city.

This healing affected Jesus in a negative way,
but it did not keep him from extending mercy to the leper.

Whenever you feel defeated...whenever you feel knocked around by life
remember you will not be destroyed, have faith.

Come to Jesus he will touch your soul.

Blessings out of defeat.

~~~Peace~~~