Devotion for St. John's Lutheran Church
Matthew 12:15-21, Psalm 75
My father-in-law was diagnosed at age 26 with Type II diabetes. Over the years he has learned to test his blood sugar, watch his diet, count calories, give himself insulin injections, and generally manage his disease. He is now in his 70s. Diabetes is a central part of his life, yet he never complains about it. He has accepted it and learned to live with it. At the same time, everyone who knows him, knows about his condition. We’ve all seen him disappear before a meal to take insulin, or refuse a dessert because his blood sugar is too high.
Now imagine if he (or anyone else who lives with a chronic illness) went to a religious gathering, and the speaker healed him. The diabetes is gone. He is completely healthy again. Although my father-in-law never complains about his disease, I’m pretty sure the first thing he’d want to do if he were healed is to tell someone! And then tell everyone! And then send his friends and family to see this miraculous healer.
This is essentially the situation described in Matthew 12: “Many crowds followed [Jesus], and he cured all of them, and he ordered them not to make him known” (Matthew 12:15b-16). There were many crowds, he cured all of their ills, and then he said, “But don’t tell anyone.” What a difficult order from Jesus! You are healed, but don’t tell anyone that I was involved.
Fortunately, we are no longer operating under that order. We are free to tell anyone and everyone about the amazing love and healing power of Jesus. And really, what is more wonderful than the Son of God giving up his life for us, so that we can be healed from sin? Go and tell of God’s wondrous deeds!
Prayer: Dear Lord, we thank you for the gift of your love. Help us to remember that your works are no longer secret. Give us courage to share your love and good news with others. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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