(Jesus said) ... "They that are whole have no need of the physician, but they that are sick: I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance." Mark 2:17b

So, what is a physician worth?

The people from the small German town of Lette believe he is worth a lot.

The community's last physician retired in September and since then the community has been trying to recruit a replacement M.D.

At first there wasn't much in Lette's offer to intrigue anyone who was qualified. But I don't know if that is the case any longer. You see the people of Lette keep upping the ante.

For example, Niko Ringhoff, the local butcher, is willing to provide the new doc with lunchtime sausages, and the hotel is offering free accommodations until he gets settled. A local salon is offering free haircuts, and the baker is providing gratis bread rolls. Between the baker and the butcher, doc has his lunches taken care of ... except for maybe flowers on the table.

No, wait! The local florist is providing flowers for the doctor's surgery.

It seems people will do just about anything to get a physician to take care of their bodies.

How sad it is that many folks don't have the same level of concern about their immortal souls.

I guess that's the way it always has been. Those who were ill flocked to Jesus begging Him to restore bodily health. But Scripture doesn't list those same numbers showing up to ask for forgiveness of their sins and restoration of their souls.

Still, Jesus is pretty plain as to why He came to this earth. His job was to sacrifice His life so sinners might be brought to repentance, faith, and forgiveness.

Jesus knew what we have all too often forgotten: because of the ravages of sin, a flesh-and-blood body is only good for so long, and the healings that are granted to it are only temporary.

On the other hand, the spiritual healing that comes from the Savior's blood-bought forgiveness is everlasting.

Even better, and almost as a bonus, on Judgment Day those who believe in Christ will be granted a glorified body, immune from the world.

THE PRAYER: Dear Lord, let me see and take advantage of all the blessings You, in Your love, have decided to bestow. For health of body and soul, soul and spirit I give thanks. In the Name of Your crucified and ever-living Son, I pray it. Amen.

In Christ I remain His servant and yours,

Today's Bible Readings: Ezekiel 5-7    1 Timothy 4

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