Modern Day Lepers

Leprosy is far more than a physical disease. It became virtually synonymous with sin. While cancer is associated with pain and suffering often relieved only with strong medication, leprosy was a disease without normal pain reaction. Thus, the pain experienced by lepers was emotional and psychological. Yet, though the leper felt no physical pain, the emotional hurt felt by lepers in Christ's time was immense. Separation from family, friends, and society was an intense pain. Rejection, regardless of the rationale, leads to emotional pain that is often far more distressing than physical pain.

While leprosy has become less visible in today's world (there are still some in developing countries), some segments of society are looked at in much the same way as were the lepers. The mentally ill, the poor, are two examples. Even in the church there are those who experience the rejection felt by lepers, especially the unrepentant sinner.

Another group often rejected by church leadership and the laity are former Pastor's. Some of this rejection is understandable, especially in the case of former Pastors who have fallen back into a sinful lifestyle and seem unrepentant! However, the line is not drawn there. It would seem that anyone who falls into the category of a former Pastor is looked down upon and experiences varied levels of rejection...even if their separation from ministry was outside of their control and they were in good standing! People don't know quite what to think of them (or what to do with them). O, many are friendly to them. They may smile and shake their hands when they must. Perhaps they share in a little conversation even. But make no mistake about it, many former clergy are not looked upon with any significant degree of acceptance. In a sense, they have become 'Modern Day Lepers'!

To be fair, many ex-clergy have brought this on themselves, for sure. Yet, many have not! Now, people are human! We must accept this. Those who have a difficult time fully integrating former clergy into their fellowship are still good people, most of them! Some do harbor strong negative feelings toward those who once served in the ministry, for no other reason than they are simply separated from full time service. They just cannot deal with it. That is unfortunate (and very unkind)!

Now, think about these things for a moment! What can you do to change some of these realities? Pray about these things for a moment! Has God given you a heart for all who approach your fellowship? OK, where do you fit into this discussion? Are you one, when confronted by a leper, shouts, "Unclean!, Unclean" then moves to the other side of the street? Or, do you put your arms around them letting them know they are still part of the family?