JUNE 13,  Matthew 8:5-13

As Jesus entered Capernaum, a Roman centurion, one of the commanding officers of the army, pleaded with him to heal his dying servant. The centurion had a tender heart for the people around him, and this servant was close to his heart. Jesus agreed to go. He would use this miracle to show us what great faith was and where it could be found.

The centurion knew that Jesus was near, he sent his friends to Jesus to tell Him not to go any further but to say the word and his servant would be healed. He felt unworthy to approach Jesus. Jesus was amazed at the faith of the centurion! He called it great faith that he had not found in Israel. What was great about his faith?

Unlike the rest of the Jews, the centurion recognised that Jesus had authority and power as the Son of God. As a centurion, he knew believed that whatever Jesus commanded would be done instantly. The centurion also believed that Jesus had power. With Jesus, nothing is impossible because He is God. If Jesus wanted to heal a person, nothing could stop Him! Jesus rewarded the centurion for his faith and healed the servant that very same hour. Faith believes that Jesus is God and that He has authority and power over all things. Compared to the rest of Israel that did not believe this, the centurion’s faith was indeed great! What about you? Do you believe that Jesus has power over all things, even that which is close to your heart?

Where can great faith be found? In the hearts of those who believe in Jesus as their God and Saviour. The Jews may be God’s chosen people with their heritage in Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. But because they reject Jesus, they will die in their sins and end up in hell. On the other hand, the Roman centurion was a Gentile (a non-Jew) but he truly believed in Jesus! He is the one who will join Abraham, Isaac and Jacob in heaven. Dear reader, faith is not found in the churches we worship, the religious things we do, or in the faith of our fathers. It is found in Jesus alone. Have faith in Him!

Thought: My faith is in a Saviour who has great power and authority.

Prayer: Father in heaven, I praise You for You have power and authority over all things. You know everything that troubles me and is close to my heart. Help me to put my faith in You alone. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.