Caring for the most needy

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Today we hear the well known story of Jesus curing the ten lepers from Luke's gospel 17:11-17. We know how the ten were cured but only one, a Samaritan, returned to thank Jesus. Usually the lesson drawn from the story is the importance of thanking God for all the gifts that we constantly receive from him. But I think there is another lesson contained in the same event that is also important for us. The lepers stood some way off as their contagious disease demanded but they were so aware of their terrible situation that when they saw Jesus, they took the initiative and shouted out, ''Jesus! Master! Take pity on us.'' They must have heard of other healings that Jesus had performed and they cried out with faith in him and were cured. As we look around at friends and acquaintances today, we can easily be saddened when we see so many who are suffering, some have serious health problems, financial difficulties and unemployment which exacerbates strained family relationships. Doctors and counselors are in high demand. But sometimes we need to remember how the lepers were cured when they turned to Jesus. At this time when leaders of countries are acting with so much self-centredness, even cruelty, with total disregard for kindness and compassion, we have to look after each other more than ever. As believers in the love of Jesus for the most needy, our first action will surely be to place those suffering from sickness, isolation or depression in his hands through our heartfelt prayer.