PLEASE READ THIS FIRST: Luke 5:12-16
What do you sense the Lord saying to you in this passage?
“But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.” (Luke 5:16)
I find this encouraging and challenging how Jesus often withdrew to pray.
I see this as Jesus recharging his batteries, keeping his focus on God.
This would be hard, constantly sought after and caring for sick people.
No doubt the healing part was energizing, but it would still be draining.
A day busy with people depletes me physically, mentally emotionally, spiritually.
I am encouraged because I often feel this need to withdraw and pray.
I am challenged because I do not withdraw and pray enough.
Though Jesus was sinless, and ‘God with us’, he was fully human.
He knew his limitations and needs, and he made sure to meet them with God.
If we do not look to God for renewal, we will look elsewhere.
Other less than helpful, less than holy ‘escapes’ that provide quick relief.
But these do not heal us, they harm us and hinder our walk with the Lord.
We need to go to Jesus and say ‘if you are willing, you can renew me!’
He is willing, he will reach out his hand, like God did for Jesus, and renew us.
PRAYER
Lord, this leper knew he needed healing and he came. I know I need renewal, why am I not coming? Help me to often withdraw with God like you, to experience your healing, renewing touch.
Jesus says to the man with leprosy: i am willing! Jesus is willing – he cares for me! Lord help me to be willing to follow you – your leading in my life. Help me overcome hesitation and fear – trusting fully in you! As part of the A to Q 1 of the HC – make me wholeheartedly willing and able to follow you! May I not only find you in the quiet spots but also as I live my day – to be in tune with your spirit! Even so Lord I find that those quiet spots get intruded on! Help me to withdraw time to time – I need you Lord!
The leper came to Jesus and was made whole – physically and spiritually. Renewed. The leper came to Jesus against all odds/rules. But Jesus touched Him. God’s love came down and healed him. Jesus healed the unlovable, untouchable. I too, need to come just as I am and be made clean and whole. As Christ showed His love to all so I too need to be an instrument of His peace/love.
Come with thy sins to the fountain,
Come with thy burden of grief;
Bury them deep in its waters,
There thou wilt find a relief.
Refrain
Haste thee away, why wilt thou stay?
Risk not thy soul on a moment’s delay;
Jesus is waiting to save thee,
Mercy is pleading today.
Come as thou art to the fountain,
Jesus is waiting for thee;
What though thy sins are like crimson,
White as the snow they shall be.
Refrain
These are the words of the Savior;
They who repent and believe,
They who are willing to trust Him,
Life at His hand shall receive.
Refrain
Come and be healed at the fountain,
List to the peace speaking voice;
Over a sinner returning
Now let the angels rejoice.
Refrain