by Rev. Velda Schirhart

In Matthew 8:2-3, a leper came to Jesus and said, “Lord, if you are willing, You can make me clean.” This statement “if you are willing” represents an age-old question that many people still struggle with today. Is God willing to heal ME? People think, “I know God can heal me but will He heal me?” This scripture settles the question once and for all. When Jesus said, “I will,” He was not just saying, “Ok, I guess I’ll do it.” The Greek word translated I will actually means, “to intend, to desire, to take delight in.” It is God’s delight for us to be healed and totally well – free from sickness, disease and pain.

The Lord’s intent is for us to be healed and whole. Jesus’ finished work at the Cross accomplished and secured this for us. This passage in Matthew 8 shows the marvelous compassion of Jesus. The leper was considered unclean and therefore untouchable. However, Jesus did not hesitate to reach out and touch him. In the eyes of the Lord, no one is untouchable. He touched, cleansed, and made this man whole. Not only did Jesus do that, but keep in mind, it was His delight to do so! That is how kind, loving, and compassionate the Lord is regarding anyone who is sick. He delights in providing healing for them!

So, again another question comes to the forefront: is healing for today? People say, well yes, when Jesus walked on the earth He healed people. However, what about now? What about me? We must keep in mind that God never changes! Malachi 3:6 says, “For I am the Lord, I do not change.” Hebrews 13:8 tells us that “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.”  So, if it was ever once the intent, desire, and delight of God to heal, then the same is true for today because God does not change!