Friday of the Twelfth Week in Ordinary Time
Gospel: Matthew 8:1–4
“Lord, if You will, You can make me clean.”
The leper approaches Jesus with remarkable faith. He does not question Christ’s power—only His will. His humble prayer reveals complete trust: “Lord, if You will, You can make me clean.” Jesus responds immediately, “I do will it. Be made clean.” Then, in an extraordinary gesture of compassion, He reaches out and touches the man before healing him. (USCCB)
We all carry forms of “leprosy”—sin, guilt, fear, wounds, or habits that isolate us from God and others. At times we wonder whether God truly wants to heal us. Today’s Gospel answers that question with certainty. Christ’s desire is always to restore, forgive, and make us whole.
Notice that Jesus also sends the healed man to the priest. Healing is not only personal; it restores the person to the community. God’s grace always leads us back into communion with Him and with His people.
Today, bring your deepest wound to Jesus. Do not hide it. Pray with the confidence of the leper: “Lord, if You will, You can make me clean.” And listen to the Lord’s reassuring reply: “I do will it.”
Prayer
Lord Jesus, You never turn away those who seek You with humble faith. Touch my heart, cleanse me from all that separates me from You, and restore me to the joy of Your presence. May I trust in Your mercy each day and become a witness of Your healing love to others. Amen.
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