1st Timothy 2:1-8, Psalm 28 and Luke 7:1-10
“Lord, do not trouble yourself, for I am not worthy to have you come under my roof; therefore I did not presume to come to you. But say the word, and let my servant be healed” (Luke 7:6-7)
The centurion will not let Jesus come to him because he considered himself unworthy to be in the presence of the man who is God at the same time. Do I have such faith and such disposition whenever I come forward to receive Holy Communion?
While others were still trying to understand who Jesus is, this Centurion, a foreigner to the faith had already figured Him out. No wonder Jesus would say: “Prophets are not without honour, except in their hometown, and among their own kin, and in their own house” (Mark 6:4).
The Centurion wanted Jesus to simply utter a word. He knew that distance was not a barrier. Indeed, the centurion knew that Jesus is the commander in charge of the universe. Do I recognize this fact also? If so, why am I always afraid of demons and evil spirits? Why is my fear of the devil more than my fear of God?
St. Paul ends our first reading today by urging us to be prayerful; that is, to pray with faith like the Centurion knowing that God is truly in command and finally, to pray without anger or quarrelling. Could this mean anger and quarrelling has a way of affecting our prayer? Surely.
Anger creates bitterness and hate in our heart; qualities that are not found in God. If we must relate with God, it is only proper that we approach God with a mind like His; a mind free from anger and quarrelling.
Let us pray: Lord Jesus, I am not worthy to have you come under my roof but only say your word and I shall be healed, Amen.
Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. God bless you. (Saint John Chrysostom, Bishop, Doctor (Memorial). Bible Study: 1st Timothy 2:1-8, Psalm 28 and Luke 7:1-10).