Jesus heals a Roman Official’s servant Luke 7:1-10
Imaginative Contemplation
Enter into the scene
I have worked for Antonio, the Roman leader here in Capernaum for a number of years. We have even become friends, despite our differences. Antonio is a really good man. He has been sent here to lord it over us Jews, but he is not like the other rulers we hear of. He is interested in learning about our traditions and religion, and is most respectful of our faith. A pity more of us Jews and Romans are not like him!
Just yesterday, some of us were talking with Antonio, telling him about Jesus who says and does such wonderful things. We had just returned from a few days off, which we spent on the mountain listening to Jesus and seeing him work miracles of healing. This morning we saw Antonio again. He was very distressed, telling us of the grave illness of one of his favourite servants. ‘I think he will die. He is such a good man, and his family will be devastated,’ he said.
‘Why don’t you go to Jesus and ask him to cure the man? We will support you! Jesus will come and touch him, and he will be cured.’
Antonio seemed shocked by this suggestion. ‘Such action on Jesus’ part would make him unclean. I could not ask him to come into my house. Indeed, I don’t think I should even go to him myself. I’m a Roman, you know, and there is no love lost between Romans and Jews! I don’t want to start trouble.’
‘Let us go on your behalf,’ we said. Antonio sounded so surprised at this, and he thanked us, patted my arm and said, ‘Go, then, and your God go with you!’
As usual, we found Jesus in the middle of a crowd of eager listeners. He stopped preaching, and, turning to us, asked what we wanted.
‘We work for a Roman official here in Capernaum. Unlike many of the foreign rulers, he is very kind to us. One of his servants, a Jew, is gravely ill. Antonio has heard of your wondrous healings, and begs you to heal his servant. He asked us to make this request as he did not feel that it was right for him to come to you in person. He knows the protocol of authority, having superiors above him and servants below him. Jesus, he is a really good man. He deserves this miracle.’
Jesus listened carefully, and turned to his followers. ‘I have not found such faith in all this region! Of course I will heal this man’s servant, and at a distance, as he would wish it.’
We thanked Jesus sincerely, and turned to go home. About an hour down the road, we found Antonio running to meet us, sobbing in gratitude that his servant was made well.
For further reflection
Discuss with Jesus the following points:
· What is my attitude towards authority?
· How do I use my authority for the good of others?
· How do I relate to those who have authority over me?
· Am I sensitive to the cultural differences in my community?
· How often do I pray for the needs of others?
· What can I do to help people in need?
· Do I make my voice heard when there is a need to do so?
Prayer
Lord, help me to be respectful of other cultures and people. Help me to be a voice for those who struggle. May my prayer embrace all people in need. Amen.