Read 1 Timothy 2:1-8, Ps. 28:2,7-9, Luke 7:1-10
“Lord, do not trouble yourself, for I am not worthy to have you come under my roof; therefore I did not presume to come to you. But say the word, and let my servant be healed” (Luke 7:6-7)
The centurion would not let Jesus come to his house because he considered his house unworthy of God, yet He believed that the whole world was under the authority of God. Do I have such faith and disposition whenever I come forward to receive Holy Communion?
While others were still trying to understand who Jesus was, this Centurion, a foreigner to the faith, had already figured Him out. No wonder Jesus would say: “Prophets are not without honour, except in their hometown, and among their kin, and in their own house” (Mark 6:4).
The Centurion wanted Jesus to utter a word. He knew that distance was not a barrier. Indeed, the centurion knew that Jesus was the commander in charge of the universe. Do I recognise this fact also? If so, why am I always afraid of demons and evil spirits? Why is my fear of the devil more than my fear of God?
St. Paul ends our first reading today by urging us to be prayerful: to pray with faith like the Centurion, knowing that God is truly in command and, finally, to pray without anger or quarrelling.
Could this mean anger and quarrelling have a way of affecting our prayer? Anger creates bitterness and hate in our hearts, qualities that are not found in God. If we must relate with God, it is only proper to approach God with a mind like His, free from bitterness.
Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, into your hands, only say your word, and I shall be healed. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. God bless you. (Monday of week 24 in Ordinary Time. Bible Study: 1 Timothy 2:1-8, Ps. 28:2,7-9, Luke 7:1-10).
@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu