Are we willing?

Our pastor gave an amazing sermon this morning in Mark 1: 40-45. I'll copy a shortened version for you here:

"A man with leprosy came to him and begged him on his knees, "If you are willing, you can make me clean."Filled with compassion, Jesus reached out his hand and touched the man. "I am willing," he said. "Be clean!" Immediately the leprosy left him and he was cured."(Mark 1: 40-42)

Our pastor pointed out the big difference between having the ability to do something and the will to actually do it. The leper seemed to understand that Jesus had a choice on whether to heal him or not. And as usual, Jesus followed through and ministered to those in need.

It makes me think more about my ability to serve those that need it most: the hungry, broken, poor, and abused. And I'm grateful to my pastor for pointing out that we all have the ability to love others... and we need to focus on using those gifts, just as Jesus would have.

God is good, and once again I am grateful to be a part of First Presbyterian Church in Raleigh.