‘MAKE ME CLEAN’
According to the Law of Moses, lepers were ceremonially unclean. They were diseased, dying people who would bring disease to anyone they came in contact with. So people cast them out of society to die by themselves, loved by no one. We now know that leprosy is not highly infectious. It is a chronic disease that affects the skin and nerves. It can be cured.
But in biblical times, no one touched a leper – except Jesus. He wanted the leper to know that God loves everyone. So Jesus touched the man and, instead of becoming infected himself, he made the leper clean.
Jesus wants us to know that everyone has a place at the table for the Great Feast with him. He does not discriminate against disease, race, or age. We just have to follow the example of Jesus and invite sick and lonely people to join us at the table.
Holy Father, we are here now to acknowledge that you have given us a place at your wonderful table, to delight in the wonderful feast of life everlasting. We ask that you forgive us our sins and clean us of any impurities so that when we come to your feast we will be ready for life with you in heaven. In the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Amen.
Adam Watkins, high school student
