There are always diseases that inspire fear and rejection in others. In the ancient world and in the time of Jesus those who suffered from leprosy suffered greatly - both from the effects of the terrible disease and the rejection and exclusion they experienced from society. It must have been a bleak and lonely life. In our own time sufferers from HIV/AIDS experience the same sort of fear and rejection as do many other groups of people who are different in some way. What was the response of Jesus? Only compassion. Not only that, he defied both the fear of his own culture and the rules of purity by reaching out and touching the man in front of him. Great and miraculous things can happen when we push aside fear and prejudice and act with compassion. The only barriers and obstacles between people are those we create in our own minds. There are many who long for a healing word or touch. The Lord didn't hesitate at all and neither should we.

Paul gives us a good example of this compassion in action. The key is shaking off the confines of selfishness and ego. Paul aims to please God and to bring happiness to others. To achieve that goal, he seeks the advantage of others rather than of self. This does not mean being a victim or sacrificing self-respect. It is an imitation of Christ, and must be done joyfully, willingly, and with confidence. There is no greater spirituality than bringing happiness and hope to others.