” ‘ “Lord, do not trouble Yourself, for I am not worthy that You should enter under my roof. Therefore I did not even think myself worthy to come to You. But say the word, and my servant will be healed. . . . When Jesus heard these things, He marveled at him, and turned around and said to the crowd that followed Him, ‘ “I say to you, I have not found such great faith, not even in Israel!” ‘ ” And those who were sent, returning to the house, found the servant well who had been sick” ‘ ” ‘ ” ‘ ” (Luke 7:6-10).
Heavenly Father, please teach us the blessing of humility! May we realize that when we become small in our own eyes, we open doors of blessings that perhaps would otherwise have remained closed. Please help us to learn and be blessed. In the holy Name of Jesus Christ we pray. Amen.
Several weeks ago I promised that I would write a series based on some of the stories in the Gospel according to Luke, apparently, the only non-Jewish author of one of the four Gospels. History describes him as a highly educated individual, a medical doctor, identified as the doctor who accompanied the apostle Paul, on some of his journeys.
What is special, in my opinion, about the Gospel according to Luke, is the fact that the heroes and heroines, in his stories are usually not those held in high esteem by society, and, or, the Jewish nation. The hero in today’s episode however, is an exception to that rule. He is a Centurion. He was accepted by the Jews because, “he loves our nation, and has built us a synagogue” (V.5). He was respected by society, as one in authority, who had soldiers under his command, who obeyed him (v.8).
Apart from these special distinguishing qualifications, he obviously was a kind and loving person! He went out of his way to get help and healing for his sick servant! Such an appreciation for the life of one’s servant was unheard of, in that day and society!
But perhaps the crowning virtue of all, was his humility; a humility that was seen and felt by those who dealt with him on a regular basis, and observed his behavior toward others. A humility not forced nor feigned, that called forth the admiration and praise of The Humblest Man of all time – Jesus, the Son of God, “I say to you, I have not found such great faith, not even in Israel!
No, this compliment was not made to a Jew, but to a Gentile, touched, and saved, by the Grace of Almighty God!
This story is found in one other Gospel, the Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 8:5-13). But notice the special detail of Doctor Luke in telling the story; the Centurion sent his friends to ask the favor of Jesus. This is an added feeling of unworthiness to even approach the Savior, which he admits (v. 7), and a dependence upon the mediation of others on his behalf.
When those who had come and spoken to the Master returned, they found the “servant well who had been sick.” There is wonder-working power in humility!
We praise God for including people of other races, as heroes and heroines in His love letter (the Bible), to the world.
There is more to come!