Show Don't Tell: Matthew 8:1-4

Instead of saying "Jesus healed a leper," smell the decay. Jesus comes down from the mountain, great crowds following. And then—everyone freezes. A leper approaches. Skin mottled and raw, fingers perhaps missing, the stench of rotting flesh preceding him. He should be shouting "Unclean! Unclean!" keeping his distance. Instead, he kneels. "Lord, if you are willing, you can make me clean." No doubt about Jesus' power—only about his willingness. Watch Jesus' response: he reaches out his hand and touches the man. Touches him. When was the last time anyone touched this leper? How many years of isolation? "I am willing. Be clean." Immediately the leprosy leaves. Jesus is stronger than defilement. His touch doesn't make him unclean; it makes the leper whole.