In the Gospels many people came to Jesus for healing. Some approached Jesus with the request, "if you will", others said, "if you can". One is an act of faith; the other is a lack of faith.

The man whose son was possessed came to Jesus and said, "if you can." He had just asked Jesus' disciples to free and heal his son. But to no avail. When Jesus comes into the scene, the man brings his son to him. He is desperate but lacks the openness of faith, so he asks, 'if you can". Jesus responds: "What do you mean, 'if I can'? Anything is possible if a person believes." The father instantly cried out, "I do believe, but help me overcome my unbelief!" (Mark 9:23-24)

In contrast is the request of the leper who came to Jesus in Mark 1:40-45. He said, "if you will, you can cleanse me." This is a prayer of simple faith. He believes that Jesus can heal him. But he does not know if it is in the will of God for him to be healed at that present moment. He had heard and seen Jesus heal others. His prayer request is simple but made with confidence. He knew the power flowing from Jesus and made the decision to entrust himself to the merciful compassion of Jesus.

When we come to Jesus, do we come with "if you can" or "if you will"?