Friday after Epiphany
Luke 5:12-16
Called to Compassion, Healing and Inclusion

In Luke, the account of Jesus healing the leper illustrates His mission to reach the marginalized, providing healing, compassion, and a sense of belonging. This event is woven into a broader narrative that highlights concern for the poor and oppressed, confronting social and religious norms that foster exclusion.

Leprosy represented more than merely a physical condition; it signified deep social isolation. Lepers faced separation, were labelled as unclean, and were excluded from their communities and worship activities. When the leper came to Jesus, he desired not just physical healing but also a return to dignity and social belonging. Jesus’ reaction was revolutionary—He touched the man, healing him and symbolically reintegrating him into the community.

This story calls us to examine how we engage with the marginalised in our world. Today, the “lepers” may not suffer from physical disease but from poverty, homelessness, mental illness, or social exclusion. Like Jesus, we are challenged to extend compassion, not from a safe distance, but through active solidarity and inclusion.

Luke reminds us that healing is not only about addressing immediate needs but also confronting the root causes of suffering: injustice, inequality, and systemic neglect. As individuals and communities of faith, we are invited to embody the Gospel by advocating for those pushed to the margins, offering not just charity but genuine integration into the life of the Church and society.

Moreover, Luke highlights Jesus’ need for prayer amid His ministries. This reminds us that our actions must be rooted in a prayerful relationship with God, seeking His guidance and strength.

© Claretian Publications, Hong Kong, China
Cum Approbatione Ecclesiastica 2025