Leprosy was the most feared disease of the ancient world. Lepers were considered ritually unclean and were often even prevented from entering Jerusalem for fear of tainting the Holy City. By law they had to wear torn clothes, cover their faces and cry out “I’m unclean! I’m unclean!” (Leviticus 13.45,46). Some even considered lepers to be morally inadequate, the victims of divine judgment.

Consider the plight of the person with leprosy. He or she had to avoid contact with people. Jesus was never afraid to express compassion, nor did he let ritual stand in the way of healing. Instead of simply pronouncing a word of healing, he touched the man with leprosy.

Today, leprosy has been joined by diseases such as AIDS and pandemic viruses. As lepers experienced in biblical times, AIDS sufferers are often viewed as having brought their misery on themselves. “They must have done something wrong.”

But even if that is sometimes true, there are millions of men, women and children who have simply been infected by others. And either way, Jesus still reaches out to them. We, too, need to share with them, not shun them, and restore their self-respect. We too should reach out to them, not pretend they don’t exist.

Reflect

Read Mark 1:40-45. Why do you think Jesus touched the man instead of merely pronouncing him clean? What does his action say about the value of human touch?

Is there anyone you know or have heard of through the news who seems “untouchable” because of a disease, a sullied reputation, or other issues? What can you do to reach out to that person?

Pray:

Lord, there are people today who know what it is to be isolated because of illness. They lie on their beds, unable to move. Savior, please move to their aid and inspire those who are healthy to take action on their behalf.

Next: Day 36 of 40.

www.EasterRestart.com

Read Luke 4:3-38.

Midday. By midday, the sun is at its hottest. A Samaritan woman comes to the well to fetch water and finds a stranger sitting there—a Jew. He speaks to her. He asks her for a drink. A single Jewish man talking to an un-chaperoned woman! And a Samaritan at that! Doesn’t he know the rules?

That was probably what a lot of people in that area thought when they saw Jesus talking to the woman at the well. But Jesus didn’t often follow the rules. Throughout his ministry, he showed a special regard for women. Women were among his followers (Luke 8.1–3). They came to listen to him (Matthew 15.38). They supported him—even when his closest followers, men, had deserted him (Mark 14.50). He rewarded their faith (Matthew 9.20–22). Jesus gave women a value and attention that was radically different in the socially rigid hierarchies of first-century Israel. Why? Because the water of life was for everybody. Of that, Jesus was certain.

In some parts of the world, women are denied education and employment, status and respect; some are little more than slaves. But Jesus came to remind them of their beloved status. Those who trust him are his children, and therefore worthy of respect.

Reflect

How did Jesus show his concern for the woman at the well? How did the woman respond to Jesus’ offer of living water? What does her response tell you about her thirst?

Live it

Consider the women among your family and friends. What are their goals and dreams? How can you lead them to the Lord and support them in their goals? Also, think about contributing your time and resources to aid oppressed women in other countries.

Pray:

Lord, you created every person in your image and you’ve given each of us special gifts. Help us to value ourselves and one another. Help us to ensure that no one is denied a chance to contribute to the great work of loving and serving you.

Next: Day 35 of 40.

www.EasterRestart.com