MARCH 7, Leviticus 13:45-46

Leprosy is a feared disease. It causes severe skin problems that, if left untreated, can be progressive, causing permanent damage to the skin, nerves, limbs and eyes. Historically, leprosy had affected mankind for at least 4,000 years, and was well-recognised in the civilisations of ancient China and the Middle East.

In biblical times, leprosy was even more feared. It was a contagious disease for it could be transmitted by blood and secretions. It was a well- established fact that when leprosy has once gained a foothold in any area, it was apt to remain there and spread.

As the children of Israel moved in the wilderness, there were crowded living conditions and a serious lack of clean water. This resulted in the need for proper hygiene practices as infectious diseases began to surface. In loving-kindness, God gave instructions here to stop the spread of such infectious diseases by separating those affected by leprosy – the lepers. Such persons must be easily recognised to protect the large population and thus their clothes were to be rent (or torn with holes); their hair not cut; the lower part of their faces covered –which is amazingly like wearing a mask nowadays! Moreover, they should signal to others that they were coming and so they had to shout, “unclean, unclean” wherever they went. Furthermore, they had to live alone, apart from others. This is also the practice today. Do you remember when SARS and H1N1 hit Singapore, affected patients were kept in isolation wards? Although leprosy is a physical ailment, it reminds us of sin that ruins our lives and points to our need of a Saviour who can wash us whiter than snow.

Again, we see God’s scientific approach to a serious disease thousands of years before man knew about contagious diseases and preventive medicine. Our God is great!

Thought: Our God is above modern science!

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for Your wisdom in dealing with diseases. It is amazing to know You have such careful plans thousands of years ago, and yet, some people today believe they know better than You and believe there is no God. I pray I will always be humble and trust in You and continue to seek You. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.