Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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 Jesus Christ who Heals

St. Matthew 8:5-17
V.9: “The centurion replied, “Lord, I do not deserve to have you come under my roof. But just say the word, and my servant will be healed”
 
In this passage, a Roman Centurion requests Jesus’ help to heal his ill servant. Although Jesus offers to go to the centurion’s home and heal his servant in person, the centurion denies it.  The centurion instead states that all Jesus must do is “say the word” and his servant would be healed. Jesus is amazed at the centurion’s strong faith, going as far as to exclaim that nobody in Israel possesses such faith as the centurion. On the outside, the centurion represents someone who many would perceive incapable of receiving the blessing of Jesus Christ, given that the centurion was both Roman and gentile. However, Jesus admires the faithfulness the centurion possesses, irrespective of his appearance. This passage reminds us of two things. First, of Jesus’ unrelenting love, even for those who may not love him back. Jesus could’ve easily turned away the centurion, yet he still works to extend the olive branch to the centurion to help someone in need. Second, our internal passion outweighs our appearance. The centurion knew deep in his heart that all it took was Jesus’ words to heal his servant, and that belief wasn’t left unnoticed. It is easy to criticize others for the way they look and make assumptions for the same reason, but while the world seems on the outside – God looks internally. 
 
Prayer
 Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for never failing to heal us from within, and understanding us internally daily. Time and time again, we doubt ourselves and others based on what we see on the outside when the issue lies deeper within. I pray that you continue to work within every single one of us so that we can be better servants of your kingdom. In Jesus’ precious name we pray, Amen.
 
Thought for the day
Refrain from judging others based on their appearance; instead take the time to understand them more internally, deepening our understanding of everyone around us in the process.
 
Landis Varughese
Chicago Mar Thom Church, Illinois 

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