“One of them, when he saw he was healed, came back, praising God in a loud voice.”
—Luke 17:15
Leprosy is an infectious disease. It attacks the nerves in a person’s hands, feet, and face. As nerves begin to die, the patient loses sensation. This means that cuts, scrapes, and bruises on the skin cannot be felt.
For many people, this leaves them vulnerable to even more infections. Severe infections can even result in disfiguration, as doctors remove portions of skin in an attempt to save the patient.
In Biblical times, leprosy meant a person was “unclean” and couldn’t interact with the rest of society. Instead, a leper would have to leave their friends and family to go live with others who also suffered from the disease.
That’s why when ten men saw Jesus, they cried out in unison for healing. Jesus promised them healing and told each one to go see the local priest who could then declare them “clean” so they could rejoin society.
On their way, all ten received healing but only one came back to praise Jesus for his miraculous healing.
Many times, God heals us in seemingly little ways, like helping you recover from the flu or strengthening your body after strep throat. Have you thanked God for these moments of healing? If not, consider doing that now…
God, thank You for all the times You’ve healed me—from minor illnesses to bigger health problems. Help me to remember Your faithfulness, no matter how I’m feeling. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
