First Monday of Advent
– You can ponder on the picture. For a method of praying with pictures click button below.
– You can pray on the words of Scripture. For methods of praying with scripture click button below.
– You can follow the suggestions in the daily ‘Reflection’.
– You can listen to the music
Today’s Scripture
Matthew 8:5-11 (HSCB)
When He entered Capernaum, a centurion came to Him, pleading with Him, “Lord, my servant is lying at home paralyzed, in terrible agony!”
“I will come and heal him,” He told him.
“Lord,” the centurion replied, “I am not worthy to have you come under my roof. But only say the word, and my servant will be cured. For I too am a man under authority, having soldiers under my command. I say to this one, ‘Go!’ and he goes; and to another, ‘Come!’ and he comes; and to my slave, ‘Do this!’ and he does it.”
Hearing this, Jesus was amazed and said to those following Him, “I assure you: I have not found anyone in Israel with so great a faith! I tell you that many will come from east and west, and recline at the table with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob in the kingdom of heaven.
Reflection
The centurion is a man with authority and power, who must have witnessed the power of Jesus to work miracles. The trust he places in Jesus is clear in his confidence that Jesus can do this amazing thing even at a distance.
Jesus’ authority is demonstrated not in wielding power over people, but in curing the servant, in bringing wholeness and healing.
Authority and power are part of our world, and often seen in controlling terms. But the word ‘authority’ comes from the same root as ‘author’, one who creates and promotes.
How might this model of authority affect our approaches to being in or under authority?
Is there an area of my life where I wish to invite Jesus to bring wholeness and healing?
Today’s Music