We have many accounts of healing in today’s reading. A few of those are detailed for us. Imagine how in the day without the internet, newspapers, or cell phones that such word about Jesus and his teaching and miracles got around. Jesus was causing a stir, as he should. He was the son of God after all.
So far in Luke’s gospel, we see Jesus as calm and available. I loved the faith of the man with leprosy when he said, “Lord,” he said, “if you are willing, you can heal me and make me clean.” Jesus was willing and the man was healed. That was a horrible disease, and to be freed from it must have been such a relief. I’m not surprised that he couldn’t keep it to himself.
Despite the throngs of people coming to Jesus, he continued to give and serve. Yet we are told he did need his quiet time, and I always appreciate hearing that. We all need our quiet time with God.
I remember when I was working full time, there were days that went by that I didn’t have, or didn’t make time for quiet time. Looking back, those days were not as productive or enjoyable. Making time, even in the nooks and crannies, can make all the difference. We need to stay connected to our source, our God, our Savior and Lord.
We see the Pharisees and teachers of the law make their first appearance here in Luke. They are not too pleased with what they see Jesus doing here. Blasphemy is a serious offense, but Jesus was God so he couldn’t be irreverent to himself. They just couldn’t see it.
How many times do we overlook God working in our midst? His creation is all around us, so snowfall, flowers blooming, thunder, birds chirping. Simple yet profound. He is everywhere. But where is he moving? In our hearts? Through the actions of others? We need to be more aware so we don’t miss the boat like those Pharisees did.
Be ready to say, “We have seen amazing things today!” God is moving.
Let’s pray. Father God, thank you that you are all around me. In your creation I see your hand. In my life, I see your hand. Help me to open my ears to hear your message to me today. I don’t want to be so caught up in my “stuff” that I forget to listen. You have the most precious message of all for me. Don’t let my crowded head block it out. Thank you for your patience with me. May your will be done this day. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
