What surprised you about today’s reading? Was it that a Roman officer approached Jesus for help? Was it that a Roman soldier surprised Jesus with his faith? Was it that a child was healed without Jesus even being present? This story is full of amazing details like that.
It is a story of faith. Bold, unquestioning faith. The officer knew that Jesus had power. Because of the power he had in his line of work, he knew what it was to give an order and have it be accomplished. This Roman officer transferred this knowledge and knew that Jesus’ power could heal his child. Jesus was so powerful that his word from afar would do the trick. That is a great example of faithfulness!
We also see humility. Jesus was ready to go to the officer’s home. Yet, the man did not feel “worthy” of having Jesus come to his home. We might find ourselves struggling a bit with feeling worthy of God’s love or provision. We may be keeping ourselves at a distance because of some guilt or lie we are telling ourselves. We may be missing out on something beautiful.
Would you have the boldness and humility to approach Jesus like this man? When we come before the throne in prayer, we are approaching Jesus. Are we bold or are we hesitant? Are we humble or are we prideful? What do we expect from God?
Jesus goes on to tell the people about how a lack of faith will really mess up one’s future. I’m sure the people hearing his words that Gentiles would be welcome in the Kingdom of God must have rocked their world. What did Gentiles know about the law? And to think that some of the chosen ones, “many Israelites” Jesus said, would be thrown into the fire. What a wake-up call!
So what does that mean for us? It’s a beautiful promise of everlasting life. The banquet feast awaits those who hold true to their belief in Jesus’ saving grace while living a life of obedience and trust. Don’t be one of the ones who is thrown into outer darkness because of your lack of faith.
Let’s pray. Lord, you never cease to amaze me with the simplicity of your message. I thank you that I can come to you with boldness at all hours of the day or night. You stand ready to welcome me. Help me to grow closer to you each day. Reveal yourself to me. I am ready. I am your servant and long for you to use me to help more and more people. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
