Key Thought

Jesus did not want to become a miracle sideshow. His purpose in healing the leper was to love and bless the leper, not to attract more folks looking to see something amazing. So as the crowds grew because they heard of his great and powerful deeds, Jesus withdrew. However, Jesus' withdrawal wasn't to hide and stay away from people. It was a time to be alone with God and renew his sense of mission and purpose. Jesus knew it was crucial to not let the crowd determine the direction of his ministry. He was on earth to do the work of God. That work was centered in making hope, freedom, healing, life, and salvation possible for all of us. That was going to be done in a lasting way only if his Father set the agenda. Jesus withdrew to be alone with God and to have God, not the crowds and not his own ego, remain in control of his ministry! This is a powerful example for all of us, especially church and ministry leaders!

Today's Prayer

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Forgive me, dear Father, for I have often sought my own way based upon my "wisdom" and my own desires before I have sought your guidance. I am not sure if that is the sin of arrogance or willful stupidity, but I want to confess to you that I know that I make a mess of things when I go my own way. Give my heart a deeper yearning to be in your presence. Draw my heart to you, O God, and not only cleanse me, but also please give me a holy hunger for you. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

Today's Verses in Context

One time Jesus was in a town where a very sick man lived. This man was covered with leprosy. When the man saw Jesus, he bowed before Jesus and begged him, "Lord, you have the power to heal me if you want." Jesus said, "I want to heal you. Be healed!" Then Jesus touched the man. Immediately the leprosy disappeared. Then Jesus said, "Don't tell anyone about what happened. But go show yourself to the priest. And offer a gift {to God} for your healing like Moses commanded. This will show people that you are healed." But the news about Jesus spread more and more. Many people came to hear Jesus and to be healed of their sicknesses. Jesus often went away to other places to be alone so that he could pray.

— Luke 5:12-16 (ERV)

Easy-to-Read Version copyright © 2001 by World Bible Translation Center. All rights reserved.