Even though Naaman was not part of God’s people, the Israelites, he obeyed the voice of God. As a result, he was healed from leprosy and came to know the greatness of God. The blessing that comes from obeying God’s word is not just for Israelites—it’s for all people and all nations. The servant girl knew this; Gehazi didn’t. But Jesus knew it too! He showed us that when a leper came to him for healing. This leper believed that Jesus had the authority (like Elisha) to speak God’s words and heal diseases. And he was right.

One day, the leper approached Jesus, knelt before him, and begged, “Lord, if you will, you can make me clean” (Matt. 8:2). The Bible says Jesus had deep compassion for this sick man (Mark 1:41). Jesus’s heart was touched. Then, Jesus’s hand touched this untouchable man and answered, “I will; be clean” (1:41). Do you know what happened? As Naaman was when he came out of the Jordan River, this man was suddenly and completely cleansed. Scales fell off his skin. Bruises and wounds were instantaneously healed. The tips of toes and fingers grew back. Something as awesome as Genesis 1 occurred—perhaps better: A new creation. A sort of resurrection from the dead. What a great picture of the gift of God’s grace, grace that is for Israel, foreigners, lepers, our enemies—everyone!