7 Now in the neighborhood of that place were lands belonging to the chief man of the island, named Publius, who received us and entertained us hospitably for three days. 8 It happened that the father of Publius lay sick with fever and dysentery. And Paul visited him and prayed, and putting his hands on him, healed him. 9 And when this had taken place, the rest of the people on the island who had diseases also came and were cured.

23b From morning till evening he expounded to them, testifying to the kingdom of God and trying to convince them about Jesus both from the Law of Moses and from the Prophets. 24 And some were convinced by what he said, but others disbelieved. 25 And disagreeing among themselves, they departed after Paul had made one statement: “The Holy Spirit was right in saying to your fathers through Isaiah the prophet:

26 “‘Go to this people, and say,
“You will indeed hear but never understand, and you will indeed see but never perceive.”
27 For this people's heart has grown dull, and with their ears they can barely hear,
and their eyes they have closed; lest they should see with their eyes
and hear with their ears and understand with their heart
and turn, and I would heal them.’

28 Therefore let it be known to you that this salvation of God has been sent to the Gentiles; they will listen.”

Lord God, move us to touch the lives of others, knowing well, believing, that Your Spirit will touch them. You are able to heal whole communities. May we love sinners as You love them, as you love us. Cause us to respond to this truth; “… that this salvation of God has been sent to the [peoples of the world]; they will listen.” Send us Lord!

“’ [Jesus] said to them, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. I came not to call the righteous, but sinners.”’ Mark 2:17