By Jeff Barker
Luke 17: 11-19
Now on his way to Jerusalem, Jesus traveled along the border between Samaria and Galilee. As he was going into a village, ten men who had leprosy met him. They stood at a distance and called out in a loud voice, “Jesus, Master, have pity on us!”
When he saw them, he said, “Go, show yourselves to the priests.” And as they went, they were cleansed.
One of them, when he saw he was healed, came back, praising God in a loud voice. He threw himself at Jesus’ feet and thanked him—and he was a Samaritan.
Jesus asked, “Were not all ten cleansed? Where are the other nine? Has no one returned to give praise to God except this foreigner?” Then he said to him, “Rise and go; your faith has made you well.”
As Jesus was travellling, he was met with some unplanned encounters. We can learn a lot by Jesus’ actions here. Jesus builds relationships and community by allowing others to disturb his journey rather than continuing on in a rush at the purpose ahead. Jesus took the time to listen to the appeal of the people, then responded. When a distraction hits you next time, be patient and take the time to listen and meet with people.