The very word "leper" for most of human history would have evoked revulsion in most people. The disease had terrible consequences for those who contracted it almost everyone deeply feared it. Somewhat the same, the word "Samaritan" would have evoked among many Jewish people in the 1st century a similar reaction of deep disdain. Both words play prominent roles in today's gospel story and give this event in Jesus' life many levels of meaning. All of it touches our own consciences deeply.

Homily shared with the Saint Francis Catholic Community in Cuenca, Ecuador.