Jesus Had A Special Care For People Affected By Leprosy
The Leprosy Mission produces an internal daily devotional guide, The Bridge, for use in offices, hospitals, clinics and projects around the world. Current and former staff and trustees from many countries contribute to the guide. We will share with you contributions made by our staff team.
Have you played the game ‘Who am I?’ I give clues, telling you about me. You guess who I am.
Let’s play ‘Who am I?’
- I am a fictional character that first appeared in children’s books in 1958
- Books were originally written in English, but have been translated into 30 languages
- I come from Peru
- I like marmalade sandwiches
- I am a Bear
Have you guessed? I’m Paddington Bear!
When he was younger, Paddington was cared for and looked after by his Aunt. Growing up in Peru, he lived with his Aunt Lucy. When he gets older, his Aunt sends him to England. Aunt Lucy sends Paddington away as she knows it is what Paddington needs. Just like Aunt Lucy, Jesus always cares for and looks after people. Aunt Lucy ties a label round Paddington’s neck with the words “Please Look After This Bear. Thank You.” Although she sends him away, Aunt Lucy loves and cares for Paddington and wants to make sure that someone will look after him. Aunt Lucy had a special care for Paddington. Like this, Jesus has a special interest in people affected by leprosy. Jesus’ love for people affected by leprosy tells us that we should do likewise – we should love and care for people affected by leprosy.
In the Bible, we read that Jesus heals a man with leprosy.
Jesus has invited each one of us to care for people affected by leprosy. The ways we support are very different. This could be administration, fundraising, medical care … Whatever we do, remember that we are being like Jesus and following his example to love people affected by leprosy.
Jesus loved everyone, particularly those who other people might have ignored – women, prostitutes, people with leprosy … Jesus included them and loved them.
Help us today to be like Jesus and show love and care, not only to people affected by leprosy, but to everyone who is feared or rejected by people around them.