“… So Jesus kept to out-of-the-way places, no longer able to move freely in and out of the city. But people found him, and came from all over.” – Mark 1:29-45

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When we lived in Louisiana you’d hear folks talk about “lagniappe” referring to a little something extra that you got and didn’t expect.  Today being Leap Day is like lagniappe – an extra day that only rolls around once every 4 years. An extra day to say thanks; to receive a blessing or to do a little something extra for someone not expecting it.

Scripture is full of lagniappe moments.  God surprises people with an unexpected blessing or a needed healing. It’s like what happened when Jesus touched the leper in this Chapter 1 of Mark. Jesus touched the scabby, putrid flesh of that outcast man. Jesus wanted to and did cleanse him of his disease, but Jesus also wanted him to stay quiet about it. But this miracle was too good to be true. This man who had no voice before would now be heard. This good news needed to be shared.

Jesus told his disciples that he came mainly to preach. But it turns out that a healed man preaches for him while Jesus has to find secluded places to get away from the pressing crowds.  Lagniappe – the healed hidden one preaches, the public preacher hides. It’s not what was expected, but it adds volumes to the Gospel message.

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Lagniappe Lord, your presence changes us, your touch heals, your words surprise, and your will brings about unexpected  results – a new sense of voice, a life worth living, a hope not found in anything else.  Keep us open to your grace, mercy and peace – In Christ, I pray.  Amen.

Lina Hart