ACTS: A Way to Live

Tuesday, March 8

ACTS: A Way to Live

The Gospel of Luke—Lent 2022

Read Luke 5: 12-25

Focus Verse—Luke 5: 13

Jesus reached out and touched the man. “I am willing,” he said. “Be clean!” and immediately, the leprosy left him.

ACTion for Reflection: How to Care for the Sick

Today as we reflect on stories of how Jesus healed, let’s also notice acts of willingness. Luke 5:12-25 includes two stories of healing. The first one shows us that Jesus was willing to touch a man with leprosy (and in the biblical days, leprosy was regarded as a terrible disease signifying someone was infected and physically and ceremonially unclean). Jesus was willing to help him and heal him, right then and there. (What are we willing to do?)

Also, we see in the next story that four friends were willing to take a paralytic to Jesus by digging a hole in the roof to lay him at his feet. They did not give up on their actions to help the paralytic. Jesus recognized this and commended their faith. (Again, what are we willing to do?)

ACTion to Live Out: Fill a prescription with love

An idea for today is to help someone who is sick in a practical way. If you don’t know someone who is sick, drop off a small gift bag or basket to your local hospital or assisted living. The bag/basket could include little things that will boost the person’s spirits (i.e., personal note to include, “this was meant for you”, devotional book, cozy socks, tea, mints etc.). Let the front desk give it to someone who is in need.

Is there anyone you know who is sick or not feeling well that you could lend a helping hand today?

Dear Lord Jesus,

Thank you for teaching us how to live! After we daily reflect on your life-giving words, help us to then, through your Spirit, get up and ACT. Give us hearts of compassion, hands of generosity, and feet that take your good news to the world. What an honor it is to be your image bearer. Amen.

Audio of Luke 5: https://youtu.be/CqXlo1HBWow