Authority Figure

He was a man of authority, a leader of many in the army. He was used to giving commands his soldiers obeyed. Yet he approached Jesus with respect, “Lord, my servant is lying paralyzed at home, fearfully tormented (Matthew 8:6, NASB).” The centurion in this passage calls Jesus, “Lord,” even though he is a Roman leader.

The centurion shows compassion for a mere servant, his servant. He sought Jesus for the sole purpose of healing his servant. Even though Jesus told him, “I will come and heal him.” The centurion responds with humility, “Lord, I am not worthy for You to come under my roof, but just say the word, and my servant will be healed (8).”

These are not the words of a disciple of Jesus, nor of a prophet. These are words of an official who was part of an occupying army. Yet his humanity came through when he saw his ailing servant. His faith in Jesus came through when he sought relief for his servant.

It doesn’t matter what position you hold in our society, your history, or your address. No matter what your need, humbly seek Jesus. Express your concern just as the centurion did. Express humility, “Lord, I am not worthy, but just say the word.” Lay it before the Lord. Have faith in Jesus.

Now when Jesus heard this, He marveled and said to those who were following, “Truly I say to you, I have not found such great faith with anyone in Israel. – Matthew 8:10. (NASB)