clear skin.

Everyone wants clear skin. Guys and Girls. This is a sign that you have your life together. That you value yourself & want those around you to as well. But this isn’t always the case, especially in our teenage years and even early to mid 20’s.

Clear skin was also a sign of value in the Bible as well. It meant that you were blameless. But, when we read in Mark 1:40-45 we learn about a man who had leprosy. Now if you don’t know what leprosy means, imagine a thousand little birthmarks, zits, or skin tags covering your body. Do not look this up via google image if you have a weak stomach.

Having leprosy in the Bible meant that you would always be overlooked, that people shunned you, that people basically always passed you by. No matter who you are & no matter what you had to offer. But when reading in Mark 1:40-45, we read about how Jesus, the one who shed His blood for us, the one who continually showers grace & love over anyone who comes in contact with Him stops and gives this man a few moments of his time. In this moment of time Jesus knew that even though this man had a skin issue, that the gifting he was birthed with was far greater & was still needed. God needed this gift to share his good news.

It was in this moment we learned that we too are like this man with leprosy. We all can connect with him personally. Maybe you have been mislabeled due to your past, maybe you don’t have enough self worth due to the voices surrounding you, maybe you have let dreams die, callings pass by, and the list goes on. The scars, the spots, the blemish, the sin continues to linger.

But I personally have learned that inside the gifting, anointing, and heart are way more valuable at the end of the day. That the voices that are trying to label you, tear you down, and fill you with doubt, fear, and anxiety can be overcome. That God still has a purpose for you. Clear skin or not. Even in the middle of what you are going through right now, God still has purpose for you. You matter. Jesus wants to bring healing to your “skin tags” and “leprosy” spots.

I am praying that the labels come off, that fear sits down, and that the love of Jesus comes in like a flood. That joy and peace are walking with you, and that no matter what your “outside” looks like that your purpose is highlighted.

Reflection:

1. Read Mark Mark 1:40-45

2. What spots do you need to let Jesus heal?

3. What areas of your life have you allowed “leprosy” define you and your calling?

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by Elijah Holbrook