Devotion:
Read Matthew 8:5-13.
Centurions are almost always treated favorably in the New Testament. A centurion was the highest ranking non-commissioned officer in the Roman army, commanding a unit of up to 100 soldiers. To become a centurion, one must have been skilled in the use of sword and shield, reached at least 30 years of age, and must have shown vigilance in carrying out orders. The centurion in today’s passage understood and respected the Jewish custom of never entering the home of a Gentile. He made it easy for Jesus to honor this custom by saying he is not worthy to have Jesus enter his home.
The centurion was accustomed to giving orders and having his orders carried out without question or even hesitation. He had seen Jesus at work and knew that Jesus’ authority over evil spirits and his ability to heal were in some ways like his own power, and he was completely confident that Jesus could and would heal his servant. Jesus remarked that he had not seen such faith in all of Israel! Think how Jesus’ disciples and apostles must have felt at hearing this. The centurion believed without any doubt or reservation, and this is what Jesus called “faith.” That is the kind of faith we too strive to have.
Personal Worship Option:
When you pray today, do so with absolute confidence that God can do what you ask. Be open to God responding in ways that are not exactly what you ask for, knowing that God is all-knowing. As you pray, express confidence (faith) that God will hear you and will answer your prayer.
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