Hebrews 11:1-6; Luke 7:1-10
Memory verse: Matthew 21:22
The foundation of faith is based on one’s ability to recognize of the power behind it. Though intangible, faith is powered by the ability to believe God without question. The result will then be seen in tangible things or actions. ‘Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. [….] By faith we understand that the universe was created by the word of God, so that what is seen was not made out of things that are visible’ (Hebrews 11:1, 3). Faith calls us to see the unseen because we believe that God has the power to do it. We do not have to first see or touch it so that we believe. Hence the admonishment, ‘… without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him’ (Hebrews 11:6)
The Roman centurion had a servant who was sick. He knew that Jesus could heal his servant and so he sent word to him. As a Roman, it was hardly that he worshipped the LORD, though he was a philanthropic man and was said to love the Jews and had built a synagogue for them (Luke 7:5). That notwithstanding, at his hour of need, the centurion didn't seek a favour from Jesus in return for what he had done for the Jewish nation. He sought Jesus in faith that he could command healing over his servant even over a distance and it would be done.
As a military man he understood that the chain of command dictated that junior officers obey their seniors without question. He was a man with a hundred soldiers under him. He commanded them on what to do and they followed without question. He was a man who understood authority and, in this instance, he humbly compared himself with his own juniors. He thought of himself a lowly person in comparison to Jesus and so placed himself under Jesus’ authority. At that moment, he recognised that the world and all forces therein were under Jesus’ command. Therefore, Jesus could give an order and they had no choice but to obey.
“Lord, don’t trouble yourself, for I do not deserve to have you come under my roof. That is why I did not even consider myself worthy to come to you. But say the word, and my servant will be healed.' (Luke 7:6-7) Jesus recognized the faith of this man and at once released power to heal his servant.
The centurion believed in Jesus - who he is and his power therein. His faith was rewarded because he recognized the power of God working in Jesus. He plugged into this power and the end result was the healing of his servant.
As we begin 2024 consider the Foundation of Faith as a key component in remaining steadfast in Christ and building on him who is our solid rock. Like the centurion: -
- Believe in Jesus as one with power to command situations of life.
- Do not try to negotiate or argue your case based on the good you have done before. Rather, in humility just believe in his power to do what you ask.
- Plug into his power. Ask of him believing that he can do as you ask. Jesus waiting to fulfill that which we ask in faith.
Have a fruitful and victorious year 2024 driven by a sincere faith in God.
