“See that you don’t tell this to anyone. But go, show yourself to the priest and offer the sacrifices that Moses commanded for your cleansing, as a testimony to them” (Mark 1:44-45).
Cleansing is more powerful than words. When a former leper shows you that he no longer has leprosy, you know automatically that something great has happened, and you will probably ask questions. “Show yourself… as a testimony.”
In our culture, marriages fail so often, many believe the whole concept is shaky. Many people have only seen bad marriages. When they see a good marriage, then, it’s like seeing a man who formerly had leprosy approaching without a blemish! When they see a marriage that has been pitiful, has been transformed into powerful, that’s a testimony! So, in our day, if you’ve had a great marriage forever, or if you have a healed marriage, your relationship is a testimony. Your life speaks a message of good news, and people are longing to hear about the Jesus who heals, transforms, and leads to the abundant life!
Do you need one more reason to change yourself and change your marriage? How about this? A marriage characterized by love and respect is light in a world of marital darkness. When you let your light shine, you will be a testimony to the community, and others will get to glorify God on the day he visits us! Maybe your watchful children will be the first to “hear” your good news!