In the Old Testament scripture of today’s Mass we hear about the plight of those with leprosy and other skin diseases, and how these unfortunate people were forced to “dwell apart” from the general population (Leviticus 13:1-2,44-46). We hear that Jewish law and custom required these people to declare their illness publicly with a cry of “unclean”. While certainly not a model of compassion by any means, the law and custom had a practical aspect – it was meant to protect the general population from what was thought to be a very contagious and debilitating illness.
Going beyond the literal and practical reading of this scripture passage, we can also read this metaphorically. If we view the physical illness of leprosy as a metaphor for sin, we come to see how, like the leper’s declaration of his uncleanliness, we also must acknowledge our sin and declare ourselves “unclean”. We see how, like the leper’s disease, our sin can result in us “dwelling apart” as it causes a disruption in our relationship with God and our relationship with each other.
Sounds bleak? Not really, because of what we hear in today’s gospel (Mark 1:40-45).
In the gospel of today’s Mass, we hear of the encounter between Jesus and the man afflicted with leprosy. We hear how the leper, mired in illness and desperation, approaches Jesus with humility, courage, and confidence, and asks Jesus for healing. We hear that Jesus is moved by compassion and “touches” the man, resulting in an immediate cure and the healing that the man desperately needs.
And it can be similar for us.
We know that our sin can cause us to become “unclean” and to “dwell apart”. But we also know that we just need to seek out Jesus in order to be healed and restored to right relationship with God. We know that God gives us every chance to turn back to him, over and over again if necessary. We know that God’s love, and forgiveness can never be exhausted.
So, with Lent upon us, we imitate the leper. We humbly approach Jesus with courage and confidence in God’s limitless compassion and mercy. We acknowledge our sin. We allow Jesus to “touch” us with his healing power. And then with grateful hearts we go forward, washed clean and renewed, intent on living our lives according to God’s will. We continue onward, reflecting God’s love and the good news of Jesus Christ to all those we encounter.