TUESDAY 3.7.23: A Roman Soldier who did what Jesus taught
In The Message paraphrase, Jesus asked, “Why are you . . . always saying ‘Yes, sir,’ and ‘That’s right, sir,’ but never doing a thing I tell you? These are words to build a life on” (Luke 6:46). We may see all Roman soldiers as personally hostile to Jesus. But like American troops in Iraq, many just did their job in a strange, hostile land. When a humble Roman officer trusted Jesus to help his valued servant, Jesus willingly did.
Reflection
From Francis of Assisi to Pope Francis, from Martin Luther King, Jr. to Mother Teresa, many of Christ’s followers have stood with the oppressed. John Wesley began the Methodist movement, in part, because his day’s leading church seemed to cater to the powerful and ignore the poor.
• How are you (and your church) building your life on Jesus’ values?
• The Roman centurion sensed, as many do not, that space or time cannot limit God’s power the way they do ours. How did he apply his own experience of authority to help him realize the reach of Jesus’ power?
• Which of your experiences help you better grasp and trust God’s power?
Prayer: Lord Jesus, your mission reached an amazing range of people and needs. Help me see the world more as you see it and use my gifts to play a part in your mission. Amen.