The Ten Lepers

​The ten lepers were outsiders, castaways from society, yet they were united in their plight, and no doubt found encouragement in one another’s company. In the same way we congregate in church to encourage one another by a common confession and faith. Yet more than this we require the pure word of Christ. Note how nine of the lepers did not return, which, as Luther pointed out, is likely due to a strong sermon from the priests to whom Jesus sent them. His enemies abound even today, and thus we need vigilance about returning to him for our own strengthening by his Word and Sacrament. Let us, like the returning leper, find ourselves overwhelmed to be recipients of his mercy, and rejoice evermore in his presence. Sermon for Trinity XIV.