In the workplace, we need willing and able people. If they are not willing, then they will be perpetual grumblers, reluctant to give any more than they must, and they will encourage other workers to resent their work and the people around them. On the other hand, if they are not able to do the work, they will fail in their tasks, put pressure on the other workers and managers; they will become expensive liabilities needing more training time and even then they may not be able to perform their duties to a good standard.

Jesus is both willing to respond to people who trust Him, and able to meet their needs. He is so different to most powerful human authorities who are often either unwilling or unable to help individuals. The leper in today's narrative knew that he was rejected by his village and family because of his disease. He might have thought that there was no point to approaching Jesus in the middle of a crowd because they would also make him go away. But his faith overcame his fear. He got through the crowds, past the disciples and knelt down at Jesus' feet - in full view of everybody.

He believed that Jesus could help him but did not presume: "Lord, if you are willing, you can make me clean." Jesus demonstrated His willingness by touching the man (something nobody else would dare to do for fear of catching the disease). He then demonstrated His ability to heal by commanding the leper's body to be clean: and it was. Despite the public demonstration, it was an intensely private encounter. The healing had to first be validated by the priest; and after thanking God for his healing, the man could safely re-enter his home and community. Jesus never sought popularity, but He rewarded the faith of people who came to seek Him despite opposition.

Never think that Jesus is on a popularity crusade, even though some religious leaders stir up the excitement of crowds. Jesus is seeking individual seekers - the people who have enough faith to push past the obstacles and defy the criticism of others, to present themselves and their needs to Him. When they do, He is willing and able to help them - to forgive their sin, to deal with their fear, to fill them with His Spirit, to give them hope for the future and peace with God. His willingness comes from his heart of love, compassion, mercy and grace. His ability comes from the infinite power of God. The leper recognised His power to deal with the incurable disease: if you know He has the power, do you doubt His willingness? He is still willing and able to do anything He chooses.