Come as you are

I am not worthy to have you enter under my roof. (Matthew 8:8)

The centurion in today’s Gospel was accustomed to exerting the might of Rome over the local Jewish population. Men in his position could confiscate property and force the locals into labor. As officers of a Roman military unit, they gave orders, not requests. So, considering the centurion’s power, it’s a bit strange that he doesn’t just summon Jesus to his home and command him to heal his servant.

No—instead, the centurion shows unusual respect for Jewish religious boundaries. He knows that according to Jewish law, entering the home of a Gentile would bring about ritual uncleanness. So in a spirit of vulnerability and humble faith, the centurion appeals to Jesus for help from afar. “Only say the word and my servant will be healed” (Matthew 8:8).

What an inspiration! No matter where we think we stand in relation to God, we can approach him. Even when we consider ourselves unworthy, we can come to Jesus and ask him to look on us with mercy. The centurion’s encounter with Jesus shows us how graciously God receives people of humble heart. Far from responding with anger or impatience, he praises this pagan’s faith. He goes so far as to elevate the centurion’s faith above that of many of his fellow Jews!

The next time you approach God in prayer, try to adopt the humble attitude of the centurion—but don’t let your humility keep you away. You may not understand everything; you may not be in the best position spiritually, but you can still go to him. Jesus is there to respond with love. Even though he is almighty God, he will meet you at your level. If he is willing to enter a Gentile’s home and cure his servant in person, he surely won’t turn you away! 

This is what merciful love looks like. It’s a love that involves mutual humility: ours, in acknowledging our weakness before God, and his, in extending his saving mercy! Every time you repeat the centurion’s words at Mass, make it a point to reinforce this message. Jesus will take care of your needs. He will forgive your sins. He will respond to your humility with his own humility and kindness.

“Jesus, meet me in my weakness. I need your help today, and I trust you to deliver!”

from wau.org