The Healing of a Centurion’s Servant
"Lord, I am not worthy to have you enter under my roof; only say the word and my servant will be healed." (Mt 8:5)
In today's gospel reading, a Roman Centurion asks Jesus to heal his paralyzed servant. The centurion, a military officer in charge of 100 soldiers, recognizes Jesus' authority. The centurion has a profound awareness of his own unworthiness, and this is key to his finding favor with Jesus. Jesus agrees to come to his house to heal the servant. So great was his faith and humility that today we use his words to express our own sentiments before receiving Jesus in Holy Communion: "Lord, I am not worthy to have you enter under my roof but only say the word and my soul shall be healed."
As we continue to prepare for Christ’s coming during the Advent season, let’s make these words of the centurion our own.
Deacon Joe Trevino
St. Clare of Assisi Catholic Church
St. Clare of Assisi Catholic Church
Houston, TX