The Cry for Mercy
Scripture: “On the way to Jerusalem he was passing along between Samaria and Galilee. And as he entered a village, he was met by ten lepers, who stood at a distance and lifted up their voices, saying, ‘Jesus, Master, have mercy on us.'” (Luke 17.11-13)
Main Point: When we recognize Jesus as Master, we find the courage to cry out for His mercy.
The ten lepers in our text understood something profound: they needed a Master greater than themselves. They couldn’t heal themselves. They couldn’t restore themselves to community. So from their place of isolation, they cried out, “Jesus, Master, have mercy on us.”
We live in a culture that tells us we should be masters of our own destiny. Be your own boss. Trust yourself. Look within for strength. But when the crop fails, when the diagnosis comes back, when relationships crumble—being your own master leaves you alone with your burdens.
These lepers knew better. They recognized Jesus as the one with true authority, and they weren’t ashamed to ask for help. Their cry was simple, honest, and desperate: “Master, have mercy.” That’s the prayer Jesus always answers. Not because we deserve it, but because mercy is who He is.
Reflection: When have you tried to be your own master? What would it look like today to cry out to Jesus for mercy in a specific area of your life?
Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are the Master of all things. Forgive me for trying to control my own life. Today I cry out to You: have mercy on me. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
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