Encounter: People Jesus Met, Then and Now預覽

The Man with Leprosy's Encounter

Leprosy was more than just a skin disease.

In Jewish society, it was understood through the lens of Leviticus 13 and 14, where "defiling skin diseases" required those afflicted to live outside the community. They were unable to socialise, live with others, worship, or take part in festivals. Unlike the tax collector, this man is not viewed as sinful but as unclean - causing him to be isolated from everyone he loved.

Even today, in an age of global cities, physical proximity, and digital interconnectivity, loneliness is more prevalent than ever. It seems that despite being constantly connected, many still feel excluded and alone.

In Matthew 8, a man with leprosy approaches Jesus—this is the first recorded interaction after the Sermon on the Mount. Jesus has just demonstrated His authority through teaching, and now, He reveals it through healing.

The man, in desperate need, comes to Jesus and says, "If you are willing, you can make me clean." He has faith that Jesus has the power to heal him.

But Jesus does more than heal his skin—He reaches out and touches him. This not only restores his body but also heals the emotional wounds of isolation and rejection. Jesus' touch cleanses his disease and restores his dignity.

Sam Wachiuri had a similar experience. Rejected by both society and the church because of his involvement in gangs, he felt completely unworthy.

Growing up in Kenya, he was homeless by age 12, surviving on the streets of Nairobi. He found belonging in gangs, which led him into crime, violence and years in and out of prison.

At his lowest point, he asked his cellmate in desperation, “Do you think God can forgive me?” His cellmate cruelly replied, “You? Even the devil cannot forgive you.” The words crushed him. He saw no hope and no way out.

But after being released from prison once again, he met a man named John, who provided tea and snacks to people on the streets. Week after week, John showed up, demonstrating kindness to this violent and excluded community Sam was a part of.

As a way of thanking him, Sam agreed to go to church with John.

Watch Sam Wachiuri's Encounter

Physical touch is a powerful part of being human, and it was one of the ways Jesus performed miracles. He could have simply spoken healing over the man with leprosy, but that would have addressed only his physical condition. By reaching out and touching him, Jesus restored both his dignity and his sense of belonging.

Similarly, for Sam, a simple hug changed everything. In that moment, someone physically shared God’s love in a tangible way.

In an age of loneliness and digital connection, never underestimate the power of a hug, a handshake, or a gentle touch. It could be the very thing that transforms a life.

Application

Is there someone in your life who might be feeling lonely or excluded? How can you practically show them God’s love and presence today?