Are we willing to sacrifice and go beyond our limitations to help others? Often not many people can do that. Unlike the story we will reflect on today, a Roman centurion who wanted to help his servant. The Roman centurion demonstrated an attitude that went beyond cultural and religious boundaries to seek help from a Rabbi. An act that demonstrated humility and recognition of Jesus' authority.

The Roman centurion, who was usually known for their discipline and authority, had absolute control over his servant, including the right to kill them if they were deemed no longer useful. So when the centurion toiled to find help for his servant, it reflected extraordinary compassion for his servant. He did not demand, but rather begged in humility. He let his desperation and compassion speak louder than his words. This humility is an early illustration of the faith that Jesus would later praise.

When Jesus answered, “I will come and heal him,” the centurion's response demonstrated a deep theological understanding of Jesus' authority. He felt unworthy to receive the Lord, and asked Jesus to just say a word and he was sure his servant would be healed. He had great confidence in Jesus’ ability to command healing without his physical presence. He compared Jesus’ spiritual authority to military authority, where orders are carried out without question. This comparison demonstrates the centurion’s recognition that Jesus has power over creation. Furthermore, by stating that Jesus need not enter his home, the centurion also showed sensitivity to Jewish customs, which considered entering a Gentile’s home an act of impurity. This consideration highlights his humility and respect for Jesus, as well as his awareness of being an outsider. The centurion’s belief in Jesus’ word alone set him apart from the many Israelites who needed a physical sign to believe. His faith served as a reminder that the Kingdom of God is open to all who trust in His authority, regardless of their background. Jesus’ reaction to the centurion’s faith was astonishing. He said, “I have not found such great faith in anyone in Israel.” This statement has profound theological implications. By comparing the centurion's faith to the faith of the Israelites, Jesus affirms that entry into the Kingdom of Heaven is not determined by ethnic or religious identity, but by faith in God. Gentiles are not excluded from God's plan of redemption. Jesus states that many people from the east and west will come to sit at the table with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob in the Kingdom of Heaven. This affirms Jesus' universal mission, inviting all nations to share in God's salvation. God's salvation is available to all who are willing to welcome Him with humility. As Christians, we truly understand that salvation has been granted by Him, but in our daily lives we must continue to struggle to realize new life in God. This is what God sees and brings us into true salvation in Him.