The Israelites rolled out their secret weapon in their battle with the Philistines - the ark of the covenant. It so terrified the Philistines that it looked as if the Israelites would win the day, but it was not to be. They were defeated, and the ark was captured by the Philistines, and it remained with them for many years. There are no secret weapons or short cuts. When we rely on 'thing' or wealth and power, it will let us down. They put all their faith in the ark, and less in God - and they probably did not fight as hard. Faith and courage are the best tools for navigating through life.

The poor leper was probably used to being rejected or viewed with fear and disgust. He timidly approached Jesus and said, 'If you choose, you can heal me!' Jesus was almost indignant - 'of course I choose, be healed!' But Jesus did something unusual and unheard of - he touched the man. He did not view him with fear or disgust, and he was not afraid of impurity or pollution by touching him. This acceptance, affirmation, and physical touch was a major part of the healing power of Jesus. We too heal by affirming and accepting others, as well as by willingness to reach across boundaries. Only fear holds us back, but as with Jesus, we can choose.