THE FAITH OF THE CENTURION
GENESIS 18:1-15; PSALM –LUKE 1; MATTHEW 8:5-17
In the first reading, the visitors said to Abraham “Next year your wife Sarah will have a son”. Sarah laughed when she heard this because she has passed the age of child-bearing. God does the miraculous and with him nothing is impossible. With God everything is timely; it is never too late or too early.
Similarly, in the Gospel Jesus worked miracles. Genuine miracles are real. All we need is faith and humility. The centurion expressed great faith and humility in Jesus Christ. Before God, faith is an irresistible fragrance; while humility attracts his favour.
The Centurion had time for his servant. He went in search of Jesus for the restoration of his servant. Modern day centurion would hardly have time for his family let alone his servant. Oftentimes, we are so busy that we don’t take the health condition of those around us very seriously. What length can you go for your Gardner or Gate keeper?
The words of the Centurion has been incorporated into the ritual of the Mass. He says; “Lord, I am not worthy to have you come under my roof; but only speak the word, and my servant will be healed..” (Matt. 8:8). No one is completely useless. We have things we can learn from those we meet. If there are those you perceive to be good for nothing, kindly include them in your prayers and you will be marveled about the result.
LET US PRAY
Oh Lord, increase our faith and restore our wasted years; restore our wasted efforts and wealth. Give us health, strength and blessings. Remove barriers from our path so that we may serve you wholeheartedly. Amen.
