Jesus heals a Roman Officer’s servant: Matthew 8:5-12
Imaginative Contemplation
Enter into the scene
Back in Capernaum, weary from preaching and healing, Jesus was looking forward to a rest. However, that was not to be. As he entered the gate of the town, a Roman Officer approached him. I wondered what he wanted. Some of these Officers are so cruel, looking for trouble. But this man seemed deeply distressed. He came up to Jesus who turned around in surprise. ‘What do you want?’ Jesus asked. ‘Sir, it’s my servant. He is such a good man, he doesn’t deserve what has happened to him. Yesterday he became very ill and is in a lot of pain. He can’t move and has been confined to bed. I hear that you can heal people like him. Please say the word and he will get better.’
Jesus looked intently at him and said, ‘I will come and heal him.’
‘Oh, no! If you come to my place, you will be unclean according to your Laws and customs. See, I know about authority; I am under orders from my superiors, and I also have authority over my servants. Just say the word, and I know this good man will recover his health.’
‘Oh my good man!’ exclaimed Jesus. ‘You have more faith than these people around us! Go home, and as you have believed, so may it be done for you.’ The Roman left and at the same time, his servant was healed.
For further reflection
Discuss with Jesus the following points:
· Am I able to respond to God’s call in the unexpected events of my day?
· Do I believe in the power of prayer?
· Am I concerned for the wellbeing of people in my life?
· Am I respectful of other people’s culture?
Prayer
Lord, help me to be open and responsive to your call each day. Open my mind and heart to recognise the goodness of others, and the value of people of other cultures. Amen.