Leprosy in Lurgan

The Belfast Telegraph has news about a man in Lurgan who has been diagnosed with leprosy (Read the whole article).

It is strange to think that leprosy, a disease long forgotten by the west apart from the odd mention in the Bible, has re-occurred in Northern Ireland and only about 15 minutes drive from my house.

This struck my attention in the News because it grasped my memory and threw my mind back to Nigeria where I had a few hours in a Leprosy colony during my visit there. I remember the deformed hands and feet, noses and other limbs. When I remember that place, two things catch my mind in a strong, powerful hold.
First I remember a young girl, probably about 3 0r 4 years old, just lying on the ground infront of all the parents, I remember asking if the children there had leprosy and was told that on the most part they didn't but because of social stigma were as much outcasts of society as those parents who have this disease.

Secondly, the fervent joy and enthusiasm at praising God, this leprosy colony was mostly Christian and though there was no full time pastor, visiting pastors would come each week and teach and preach to this group of God's children. And they loved it!
Sam, my boss talked to them through a translator and we gave them gospels of John each, and they sang, that's what I remember most, their response to God in singing! Hands up, voices raised and lots of praise!

I remember leaving on the bus and praying for them, and for myself because though they had a disease they had much more consitent faith and joy in Christ. We in the comfortable west tend to complain often about very little and we lack joy; our worship sometimes has the appearance of a funeral rather than the adoration of a risen, powerful, amazing saviour who has blessed us. And when all our comfort should only cause greater joy and satisfaction in Him we moan and groan for more!