True breakthroughs come from a sense of desperation, not from an attitude of casual concern.

Luke 5:12-13 (NIV®)     

While Jesus was in one of the towns, a man came along who was covered with leprosy. When he saw Jesus, he fell with his face to the ground and begged him, “Lord, if you are willing, you can make me clean.” Jesus reached out his hand and touched the man. “I am willing,” he said. “Be clean!” And immediately the leprosy left him.

 

Leprosy is an incurable skin disease. In the first century, it meant you were a social outcast. If you came into a public place, you had to announce loudly that you were a leper. It meant a tremendous amount of rejection, yet this man who was “covered with leprosy” recognized Jesus’ authority and power to make him well. He approached Jesus, fell to the ground, and begged Him for healing, “if you are willing.” You can hear his desperation. He’s given up any social propriety. He doesn’t care what other people think. Jesus reached out and touched him, and he was healed - immediately. No reminders of the man’s past, no hoops to jump through, no recrimination. I’ve learned something about freedom in our lives: true breakthroughs come from a sense of desperation, not from an attitude of casual concern. Jesus’ response was a game-changer. Hear Him say it again: “I am willing. Be clean.”

 

PRAYER

Heavenly Father, give me courage to trust You for the impossible. Give me the boldness to step out and place my life in Your care. Forgive me for my desperate attempts to remain in control. I need You to break into my life with Your miraculous power. As I choose You, I expectantly look forward to Your interaction in my life. I rejoice today in Your strength, concern, and watchfulness. In Jesus’ name, amen.