Untouchable

Today I was reading the account of Jesus curing the man with the 'dreaded skin disease' (Mark 1:40-45).

The commentary on the passage revealed that this disease possibly wasn't leprosy - skin diseases of various kinds were usually lumped together under the same name - however the end result was the same. The sufferers were shunned, deemed to be outcasts of society. This action was all about religious cleanliness, and not individual prejudice. This was the custom, that was just the way it was.

Imagine, then, the outcry when a teacher such as Jesus intentionally reaches out to touch him. This simple act of kindness is shocking enough - add to that the fact of the eventual outcome and you can see how this caused such a stir.

To many, even the simple touch of this teacher could bring them hope; those who were previously untouchable. If Jesus could reach out to this man, surely then He could do it for others, in all kinds of circumstances. They came in their hundreds...

What is particularly amazing is the fact that Jesus doesn't need to touch him. There are other times in His ministry when He heals just by saying the word (Luke 17:11-14). Unless, of course, there is a real need for that physical contact. As there was on this occasion.

Even one tiny touch, a tiny bit of kindness, can make an incredible difference in some people's lives. Who are the 'untouchable' ones today?

Food for thought.