2/10/08 - Life Journal - Remove the "Cancer"

"The leprous person who has the disease shall wear torn clothes and let the hair of his head hang loose, and he shall cover his upper lip and cry out, 'Unclean, unclean.' He shall remain unclean as long as he has the disease. He is unclean. He shall live alone. His dwelling shall be outside the camp.

Leviticus 13:45,46

This person, deemed unfit to be a part of the society because of his infectious illness, is "sentenced" to live outside of the camp. Cruel punishment? Or is it a symbol of protecting the people as a whole?

I'm not sure. At first I was going to write about the cruelty of the situation and how it reflects on people we feel aren't worthy to be a part of "our" church. But then something else came to me. Maybe it's a warning for us. Some people will come along and for whatever reason won't mesh with our gathering. Not saying they aren't devout followers but differing opinions will lead to gossip and slander, finally leading to a cancer that can tear up a once harmonious group of believers. We need to recognize the "symptoms" and lead these people, not "outside the camp", but to a group where they can fulfill their purpose more constructively.

Lord, I know there is a place for all of you children in Your church. I pray that you will help me guide them to the perfect spot You have chosen for them.