Posted by The WORD in other words (2006) by Sister Weng SSpS
Saturday 12th Week in Ordinary Time
I still remember one of my experiences in a parish community. A man who was very ill, though not Catholic, had family members who came to ask us to pray over him. They believed that prayer was powerful for his recovery. It was a beautiful expression of faith. As we prayed, I saw in them a calmness and surrender so different from their earlier critical attitude toward Catholic practices. They believed in Jesus as we do — that He can heal, and that our prayers could help.
In today’s Gospel, Jesus is amazed at the deep faith of the centurion, a Gentile. Though not a close follower of Christ, he believed that Jesus could heal. He recognized Jesus’ authority and trusted His word: “Lord, I am not worthy to have you come under my roof; but only say the word, and my servant will be healed” (Matthew 8:8). Jesus praised his faith, greater even than those who had witnessed His miracles yet still doubted.
Faith like the centurion’s shows us that trust in God does not depend on proximity or privilege, but on confidence in His power. What he asked of Jesus happened because he believed.
Indeed, deep faith makes many things possible. We must trust that God will act — not in our time or way, but in His.
Reflection:
- Faith in prayer: Do we believe that prayer can bring peace and healing, even across differences?
- Faith like the centurion: Do we trust Jesus’ authority even without seeing Him act directly?
- Faith in God’s timing: Can we surrender our expectations and allow God to work in His way?
Prayer: Lord, help us believe and trust that You are indeed a God who can heal us and do what is impossible for us — in Your time and in Your way.
