As we get ready to venture out into the elements or just do things around the house, let us take a look @ today's gospel from Matthew (MT. 8: 5-11).                          

        Today we encounter Jesus and the Roman Centurion. The centurion's servant is very sick and possibly near death. He asks Jesus to cure his servant. Jesus says "yes" and is ready to go to the Centurion's house and cure him. However, the Centurion, who is not even of the Jewish religion, says "Lord, I am not worthy to have you enter under my roof; only say the word and my servant will be healed..."

         Jesus says that this is the first time He has seen so much faith in one person. What about us? How strong is our faith today? Better yet, are we listening to what God wills of us today? Opening our hearts to listen to God's will for us is what faith is all about. 

         As we go about our business today, whether it is taking care of snowbound kids or shoveling out a driveway for a neighbor, let us firstly listen in silence. Then we will be able to listen to the needs of others and help them in their needs. 

        Let us have the faith of that Centurion and trust that whatever healing needs to be done that God will do it. All we have to do is stop, listen, and believe in the miracle.

Have a great day everyone!

Fr. Pat