March 8, 2024

One of my favorite quotes from the recovery movement is, “God can’t heal what we won’t reveal.” It’s such a true and powerful statement. So many people carry around private pain. They smile; they pretend that everything is okay, but inside they’re hurting. And hurting bad. Sometimes it’s a serious health issue that they just can’t bring themselves to talk about. Sometimes it’s a crumbling marriage that they’re too scared to admit. Sometimes it’s an issue with their kid that they’re trying to hide. Sometimes it’s an addiction that’s just too shameful for them to admit. So, they hide in the shadows. Not letting anyone get too close.
That’s why you have to appreciate the courage and faith of this leper. Lepers were ostracized by society. People were afraid of them and catching their disease. They weren’t allowed to get too close and were basically run off from everywhere they went. So they stayed in colonies outside of town. When they did venture into the city or village, they, too, hid in the shadows. But this man decided to take a chance. He made himself known. He didn’t try to cover up his disease or his desperation for healing. He’d heard of who Jesus was. Perhaps the stories of Jesus’ ability to heal even made the circles in the colony where he lived. On this day, he decided he was tired of hiding. So he came out of the shadows and threw himself on the mercy of Jesus. And that bold move of faith would change his life.
How about YOU? Aren’t you tired of hiding in the shadows? Aren’t you tired of carrying this pain around inside of you all by yourself? Maybe it’s time you came forward. Maybe it’s time you reached out for help. Maybe it’s time you stopped letting yourself be held captive by your shame, your fear, and your pride. Healing, wholeness, and a brand-new life may be just one bold step away. Come out of the shadows. Jesus will meet you there. That’s God’s Word for you today.