When have you been in desperate need and got relief? How did you respond? As Jesus walks toward Jerusalem, he encounters ten lepers who suffered physically and psychologically and were social and religious outcasts. He had compassion on them and healed them, giving them the relief they longed for. Yet only one came back to thank Jesus.
We are all spiritual lepers. However, the Father’s unfathomable love for us compelled him to send his Son to heal our horrific condition. The atoning death and victorious resurrection of Jesus restore those who have faith in him.
11 On the way to Jerusalem he was passing along between Samaria and Galilee. 12 And as he entered a village, he was met by ten lepers, who stood at a distance 13 and lifted up their voices, saying, “Jesus, Master, have mercy on us.” 14 When he saw them he said to them, “Go and show yourselves to the priests.” And as they went they were cleansed. 15 Then one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, praising God with a loud voice; 16 and he fell on his face at Jesus' feet, giving him thanks. Now he was a Samaritan. 17 Then Jesus answered, “Were not ten cleansed? Where are the nine? 18 Was no one found to return and give praise to God except this foreigner?” 19 And he said to him, “Rise and go your way; your faith has made you well.”
The Holy Bible, English Standard Version copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Quotation information.
Justin Holcomb
Luke 17:11–19