More Than A Look

I’m plugging along in my Chronological Bible Reading Plan. Today I read several chapters in Leviticus, which I’ve heard referred to as “the graveyard of yearly Bible reading.” It’s not the easiest book to read, but I’m learning a gracious plenty.
Today, in chapter 13, I read about the test for leprosy. I was tempted to just scan over all the talk of swelling and infection and bald heads and white hair. But I read each verse and noticed a repeating phrase. Over twenty times it says, “the priest shall look.”
Look…not touch.
Leprosy is “a disease of the blood itself, which is the life; it’s manifestations are most terrible and loathsome; and it is incurable.” (G.C. Morgan)

In Mark 14:3 we read that Jesus was at the home of Simon the leper, reclining at his table. Jesus wasn’t looking from afar.
In Matthew 8 we read these words, “And a leper came to Him and bowed down before Him and said, ‘Lord, if you are willing, You can make me clean.’ Jesus stretched out His hand and touched him saying, ‘I am willing; be cleansed.’ And immediately his leprosy was cleansed.”

Here is more from G.C. Morgan’s LIFE APPLICATIONS FROM EVERY CHAPTER OF THE BIBLE:
“In light of these considerations, we remember that there came in the fullness of time One Who could not only look at, but touch the leper–One who could cure. That is also the story of his dealing with sin. ”

I’m overwhelmingly grateful for the love and compassion of Jesus to draw near to me, a sinner. I need His grace and mercy so desperately every single day.

HE TOUCHED ME

Shackled by a heavy burden,
‘neath a load of guilt and shame;
Then the hand of Jesus touched me,
And now I am no longer the same.

He touched me, O, He touched me,
And O, the joy that floods my soul.
Something happened, and now I know,
He touched me and made me whole.

Since I met this blessed Savior,
Since He cleansed and made me whole;
I will never cease to praise Him,
I’ll shout it while eternity rolls.