On the way to Jerusalem Jesus was passing along between Samaria and Galilee. And as he entered a village, he was met by ten lepers, who stood at a distance and lifted up their voices and said, “Jesus, Master, have mercy on us.” When he saw them he said to them, “Go and show yourselves to the priests.” And as they went, they were cleansed.

Luke 17:12-14

Luke tells us that Jesus is going on a journey. He enters a village and is met by ten lepers. Lepers had to live on the outskirts of town away from society. When anyone came near them, they were supposed to yell out “Unclean, Unclean” so that people would know to stay away. Instead, the lepers beg Jesus for mercy. Jesus tells them to go to the priests. As they obey Jesus and follow his instruction, they are healed.

Like the lepers, we need Jesus’ mercy. Like the lepers, we need Jesus to cleanse us and make us whole. The more we are aware of our need for Jesus and realize our need for his mercy, the more likely we will be able to recognize his blessings.

Pray today with the lepers, “Jesus, Master, have mercy on me.” Say that five to ten times. Then, pray it throughout the day.