09/07/2019 - LORD, IF YOU ARE WILLING!

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And behold, a leper came and worshiped Him, saying, “Lord, if You are willing, You can make me clean.” Matthew 8:2

Jesus had gone up the mountain to deliver what many call the Kingdom of God´s Constitution. Countless people joined Him, who, with simple and powerful words, translated for them the correct way to behave in life. Those who read the teachings recorded in chapters 5, 6, and 7 of the Gospel of Matthew are amazed. The Master explained how we should live to please God.

There is no contradiction or mischievousness in Jesus´ preaching, just pure lessons from Heaven. At the very least, whoever hears what He spoke will say that nobody ever spoke like Him. If we want to do good we just need to follow His examples. This way, we shall be blameless in the eyes of the Father and others. It is undeniable that when we read the Bible, we learn the Truth.

According to Moses´ Law, the leper had to live far from everyone (Leviticus 13). However, that sick man who drew near Christ was sent by the Most High. Likewise, people who today seek to know the Savior do not come to Him by chance, they are led by the eternal Father, the Creator. In the Son of God are hidden all the treasures and all wisdom (Colossians 2:2,3). He is fantastic!

The leper heard the Master’s statements. Those words cut his heart and convinced him of sin, justice, and judgment (John 16: 8), causing him to long to be next to the Messiah. At the end of the sermon, Jesus saw that man approach and ask a question of faith. He understood that Christ had power to accomplish anything, but wasn’t sure if He wanted.

The question of the leper is the same that many people have: does Jesus want to heal, forgive, and prosper us? We know the Lord has all power and is shows no partiality (Acts 10:34). However, the lack of knowledge regarding Scriptures and God´s power prevents us from being blessed.

The Master’s reply to the leper and the consequent laying of hands on the body of the sick leave no doubt that Jesus wants us well. The Lord touched him and said, “I am willing, be cleaned ” (Matthew 8:3). The leprosy then disappeared. The Master never told a person that they could not receive a blessing for some religious reason, not even sin. The mere fact of hearing the Word prepares them to obtain divine forgiveness and the gifts of God.

You were led into Jesus’ presence to hear the Word, which cleanses and saves. Thus, your past is irrelevant. When you understand the message, you are already free from your mistakes. So, just look at Him and you will be justified. What you need is already assured. Thank God, believe and be healed right now!

In Christ, with love,

R. R. Soares