Touching the Unclean (Matthew 8:1–4) The leper in this passage is an example of someone in desperate need of human touch. As a leper, he was required by Levitical law to cry aloud, “Unclean, unclean!” to warn others to stay away from him. Approaching a rabbi like Jesus speaks of his bold desperation. His appeal, “If you are willing,” demonstrates his humility and recognition of Jesus as Lord. He understands that Jesus would have to stoop very low to grant his request. The fact that Jesus reaches out and heals with a touch reveals His deep compassion. His love turns death into life. In our everyday interactions with the troubled and hopeless, let us reach out with the love of God that has reached out and embraced us. What are some things you can do to touch others with the love of Jesus? How can your church extend compassion to the outcasts of our society?p