5 When Jesus entered Capernaum, a centurion approached him and appealed to him, 6 saying, “Lord, my servant is lying at home paralyzed, suffering dreadfully.” 7 He said to him, “I will come and cure him.” 8 The centurion said in reply, “Lord, I am not worthy to have you enter under my roof; only say the word and my servant will be healed. 9 For I too am a man subject to authority, with soldiers subject to me. And I say to one, ‘Go,’ and he goes; and to another, ‘Come here,’ and he comes; and to my slave, ‘Do this,’ and he does it.” 10 When Jesus heard this, he was amazed and said to those following him, “Amen, I say to you, in no one in Israel have I found such faith. 11 I say to you, many will come from the east and the west, and will recline with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob at the banquet in the kingdom of heaven.”
Historical Background
Archaeological excavations confirm Capernaum was a thriving town in Jesus’ time, with basalt houses, fishing tools, and a synagogue beneath the later 4th-century structure. Inscriptions and records from Josephus show centurions were stationed in Galilee, making the story historically plausible.
Centurions were often Greek-speaking veterans. Galilean Jews also spoke Greek due to trade routes, so communication between Jesus and the centurion was natural.
Theological Context
The centurion, a Gentile, demonstrates profound faith in Jesus’ authority. This anticipates the inclusion of all nations in God’s plan of salvation. He recognizes Jesus’ word as sufficient to heal, paralleling military command structures. This highlights Jesus’ divine authority over sickness and creation.
Jesus declares that many will come from east and west to sit with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob in the kingdom, pointing to the universality of the Gospel. While Israel was the chosen people, Jesus warns that some who presume closeness to God may miss out if they lack faith.
Learning Lessons
Jesus' word alone is enough to heal us. The centurion's faith teaches us to trust in God's power to work in our lives, even when we cannot see Him physically. It encourages us to believe in the unseen and trust in God's ability to intervene in our situations. Let us show a deep faith in Jesus' authority and power, even without His physical presence.
The centurion acknowledges his unworthiness to have Jesus come to his home. This humility is a powerful example of recognizing our own limitations and the greatness of God. He seeks healing for his servant, not for himself. This act of intercession highlights the importance of praying and seeking God's help for others, showing compassion and care for those in need.
Reflecting on this verse can inspire us to cultivate humility, deepen our faith in God's authority, trust in His power, and intercede for others.
Reflection for the Day
This passage reminds us that God’s grace is not bound by ethnicity, status, or tradition. Faith is the key that opens the door. God’s kingdom is open to all who believe.
The centurion does not demand Jesus’ physical presence but trusts His word. True faith rests not on signs but on confidence in Christ’s authority. Like the centurion, we are called to recognize Jesus’ power in our lives. His word is enough to heal, guide, and transform.
Today’s reflection invites us to trust more deeply in His word and to welcome others into the fellowship of faith.
Lord, I am unworthy, this I know,
To have You come where I reside below.
But with a word, Your power revealed,
Just say the word, and he is healed.
In humble faith, I seek Your grace,
To heal my servant in this place.
No need for You to come inside,
Your word alone will turn the tide.
With faith so strong, I trust in You,
Your healing touch, Your love so true.
For in Your word, all power lies,
To mend the heart and open eyes.
Lord, speak the word, and it is done,
Your will be done, Your kingdom come.
In faith, we stand, in hope, we kneel,
Just say the word, and we are healed.
In humility, we come before You, acknowledging our unworthiness to have You enter our homes. Yet, we trust in Your boundless mercy and power.
Just say the word, Lord, and healing will flow, For Your authority transcends all boundaries. Grant us the faith of the centurion, to believe in Your word and Your will.
Heal our hearts, our minds, and our bodies, and extend Your grace to those we love. May Your presence be felt in every corner of our lives, bringing peace, comfort, and restoration.
Amen.
Pericope:
Gospel Acclamation
Come and save us, Lord our God; let your face shine upon us, that we may be saved.
Reflection Source:
Conversation with Copilot
Published:
December 02, 2025, 5:33 AM
