<\/span><\/h3>\nThe Gospels of Matthew, Mark and Luke narrate how Jesus once healed a leper he encountered while passing through a city. Specifically you can find the episode in Matthew 8:1-4, Mark 1:40-45 and Luke 5:12-16<\/strong>.<\/p>\nLeprosy is a highly contagious<\/strong> and chronic disease<\/strong> in which sufferers develop skin spots that can lead to disfigurement and in some cases disability. For years, lepers were excluded from<\/strong> society because of the possibility of contagion, so that in ancient texts they always appear marginalized and in deplorable economic conditions.<\/p>\nToday leprosy has been eradicated<\/strong> in much of the world, although there are still cases in emerging countries such as India that are treated with modern drugs.<\/p>\nSo Jesus met a leper who begged to be cured. In the Gospel of Matthew the situation is perfectly explained, and we can see how Jesus dared to do what no one would ever do: he touched the leper and healed him<\/strong>.<\/p>\n“And, behold, a leper came and fell down before him, saying, Lord, if thou wilt, thou canst make me clean.<\/p>\n
Jesus stretched out his hand and touched him, saying, “I will; be clean. And immediately his leprosy was cleansed.” (Matthew 8:2-3)<\/p><\/blockquote>\n
When the man was healed, Jesus asked him not to say anything to anyone about what had just happened, for if the people found out, they would all come in crowds to see him and he would not be able to pray in peace. Even so, according to Mark 1:45 and Luke 5:15-16, that request was not successful and the people went out to receive Jesus<\/strong>, who decided not to enter the cities and to stay in desert areas.<\/p>\n“But he withdrew himself into desolate places, and prayed.” (Luke 5:16)<\/p><\/blockquote>\n
With this episode, Christ gives an unparalleled example of humanity. We must take into account the detail of touching the sick person before healing him, as a symbol<\/a> of welcoming him into society<\/strong>. The society of the Sons of God excludes no one; on the contrary, it includes everyone who wishes to share in God’s love<\/a>.<\/p>\nEnjoy with the emotional images that this miracle leaves us:<\/p>\n
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Jesus Heals the Leper (Matthew 8)<\/div><\/div>