“…Lord, I do not deserve to have you come under my roof. But Just only say the word, and my servant will be healed” – Matthew 8:8 (NIV)
Prior to the aforementioned declaration, the scene is set in Capernaum, where a Roman centurion met Jesus and informed Him that his servant is bed-ridden, paralysed, and suffering terribly. Jesus, in response, asked him whether he would have him visit his home and heal his servant. The centurion declared that he was not worthy to have the Lord at his home but requested that He (Jesus) just speak the word, and he believed that his servant would be healed.
Jesus’ response is of utmost significance and an indictment against the people of Israel when He declared, “Truly I tell you, I have not found anyone in Israel with such great faith.” – (Verse 10).
Beloved, it begs the question of whether those who have not given their life to Christ have more faith in Him than we Christians do. A centurion who came from a pagan culture of idolatry was exercising more faith in the Lord Jesus than His chosen people, the Israelites. Jesus said to the centurion, “Go! Let it be done just as you believed it would.” And his servant was healed that very moment.’ (Matthew 8:13).
This centurion reminds us that man looks on the outward appearance, but God looks on the heart (1 Samuel 16:7). The centurion teaches us to have faith in God’s Word, not in an outward manifestation. It will not be surprising that when the roll is called up yonder (Composer Milton Black 1893 Hymn), most of the great persons among us will probably be those who lived in obscurity faithfully and diligently serving Jesus in the vineyard.
Saints, our Lord Jesus is not impressed with titles, degrees, and achievements as we are. Rather, He is impressed with those who humbly and faithfully believe in Him, those who are full of unswerving faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, and believe that anything they ask in the Father’s name, He will give (John 16:24). Let your faith arise.
Read: Genesis 15:6; Proverbs 14:14
Bible Reading Guide: Psalms 119:9-16; 1 Thessalonians 2:17-20; 1 Thessalonians 3; Jeremiah 21; Jeremiah 22; Jeremiah 23:1-8
Amen