In Today’s Gospel (June 26, 2021), we see the perfect example of complete and radical faith from a Centurion soldier. He meets Jesus in Capernaum and appeals to him to heal his paralyzed servant. But when Jesus says that he will go to his house, the Centurion, in noble humility and daring faith says, “Lord, I am not worthy to have you enter under my roof; only say the word and my servant will be healed….”
In response, Jesus marveled at the Centurion’s simplicity and expectant faith and was greatly pleased. Jesus then heals his servant from a distance, with his words, “You may go; as you have believed, let it be done for you.” By responding this way, Jesus reveals to us that the more faith we have, the more we will obtain what we ask for from God, if it is according to his will.
This story takes place at the beginning of Jesus’ ministry in Galilee and occurs right after Jesus’ sermon on the mount. Although many Jews still did not believe in Jesus at this point, the news about his teaching and miracles spread throughout the regions. The Centurion likely heard about Jesus, but full knowledge of his identity was probably unknown to him at that time. Despite this lack of complete understanding, the Centurion believed what he heard about Jesus’ divine power. He boldly stepped out in faith and asked Jesus to heal his servant and was absolutely confident that he could perform this miracle with the authority of his word alone.
My brothers and sisters, Jesus wants to work miracles in our lives, and it pleases him when we have the same faith as the Centurion, who was simple, humble, and confident in Jesus’ powerful ability to heal his servant. We see that the act of faith was the direct cause of Jesus’ miracle and that if we have faith as small as a mustard seed, we can move mountains, and nothing will be impossible for us. But real faith is expressed and strengthened in love and action. The Centurion loved his servant and acted by approaching and asking Jesus for a miracle.
Even if we don’t fully understand something or struggle with some anxiety in life, we are called to step out in faith like the Centurion so that Jesus can do the impossible in our lives. Is God calling you to have faith that he will heal that wound that causes you much pain and shame? Or to have faith that God can convert a family member or friend who has strayed from the Church?
The Church also recognizes the vital importance of bold faith and humility displayed by the Centurion which inspired the prayer we pray right before consuming the Eucharist at every Mass. We humbly proclaim, “Lord, I am not worthy that you should enter under my roof, but only say the word, and my soul shall be healed.”
We acknowledge our littleness in comparison to God, and with gratitude and reverence, we receive the Eucharist, having faith that it is truly Jesus’ risen flesh given to us that will heal and save our souls.
So, my friends, how is our faith today? Will it amaze Jesus and lead us to growth and healing, or will it prevent him from performing miracles in our lives? Is our faith like the flames of a roaring campfire, strong, alive, and acting in trust, or is it doubtful, stagnant, and fading like a burning ember? The good news is that if it is weak but still burning, the fire of our faith can be brought back to life by sticks of humility, tinder of acts of faith, and firewood of confidence, fanned into flame by the breath of the Holy Spirit.
And so, we pray today, increase our Faith Lord, help us to confidently trust in you.