Lord, don’t trouble yourself, for I do not deserve to have you come under my roof. That is why I did not even consider myself worthy to come to you. But say the word, and my servant will be healed. — Luke 7:6–7 (NIV)
This is the story of a Roman centurion who asked Jesus to heal his sick servant. The eldest pleaded his case by saying that the centurion had built the synagogue for them, making the case for his worthiness. But the centurion did not rely on his status or achievements, but humbled himself before Jesus saying, I do not deserve this (I am not worthy).
So often when we pray, we ask for signs. We fear giving control to God, and we insist on getting some certainty of God’s plan. Yet this centurion not only did not asked for signs, he was so confident that he asked Jesus to only say the word, certain that his servant will be healed this way. He trusted Jesus’ authority without needing proof.
He Recognised Jesus’ Authority
The centurion understood authority as he himself was a commander of many, and deals with commanding his solders regularly and they obey him. He recognised Jesus’ far-greater authority and he knew Jesus’ words were far more powerful.
He Approached Jesus with Humility
Although the centurion had his status and influence, he approached Jesus with great humility, saying, “Lord, I am not worthy…”.
He Placed His Trust in Jesus
The centurion trusted Jesus to only say the word, and it will be done. He trusted in Jesus completely, and knew that His word is trustworthy.
In the Bible, we hear of many people being amazed at Jesus and what He had done. This is the rare occasion when Jesus Himself was amazed – declaring that He has not found such great faith even in Israel (Luke 7:9). What extraordinary faith!
My Invitation
This is my invitation to you today: let us come before Jesus with the humility of the centurion and the confidence of his faith, praying, “Lord, I am not worthy… but only say the word”