We are LOVE-empowered

We are LOVE-empowered

Everyone knows, in some measure, how painful it is to be excluded, marginalized and rejected.  It has been done to us, and we may have done it to others – intentionally or unintentionally.  Either way, LOVE-GOD does not leave anyone out of its limitless circle of acceptance, protection and providing.   

In this biblical story we see how Jesus’ encircling love, which evinces divine LOVE, accepts, comforts and heals those who’ve been rejected. 

“It happened that as he made his way toward Jerusalem, he crossed over the border between Samaria and Galilee. As he entered a village, ten men, all lepers, met him. They kept their distance but raised their voices, calling out, "Jesus, Master, have mercy on us!" Taking a good look at them, he said, "Go, show yourselves to the priests." They went, and while still on their way, became clean. One of them, when he realized that he was healed, turned around and came back, shouting his gratitude, glorifying God. He kneeled at Jesus' feet, so grateful. He couldn't thank him enough—and he was a Samaritan” (The Message, Luke 17:12-14).

The Samaritans and the lepers were rejected by the Jewish community.  But Jesus loved them. 

It says that Jesus first took a “good look at them” before responding to their need.  With his look Jesus did three things: (1) he brought them into his love; (2) he discerned in them the readiness to be purified and transformed; and (3) he perceived their LOVE-empowered spiritual wholeness.  This healed them. 

Furthermore, the story makes sure that we know that the healed man who expressed profuse gratitude belonged to the Samaritans.  In other words, LOVE embraces and designs everyone.  Society rejects people, but LOVE includes everyone within its immeasurable grace, health and bounty.   

Nothing and no one can keep us out of LOVE.  We are in the tender, healing embrace of Christ. 

Why don’t we take a good look around us and see how many we can bring into our understanding of LOVE’s inclusive goodness.  Our Christ-like spirit reaches everyone and heals in unexpected ways.