March 26, 2013

“Authority”

Blessings Folk!

Today’s reading:

Matthew 8:5-13
Mark 2:1
Luke 7:1-10
John 4:46b-54


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This is a case where differences in translations reveal some things.

The servant was paralyzed.
He was fearfully tormented.
Tormented.
Tormented connotes a tormentor.

The tormentor was causing paralysis.
The tormentor was either illness/disease or an evil one.
Likely it was an evil one.

Regardless, the centurion acknowledged by his request and his dialogue with Jesus that Authority was the issue.
He knew Jesus had authority to heal and to set free.
He trusted.
Look at how he spoke:

• Lord
• I am not worthy
• Just say the Word
• My servant will be healed

These are proclamations of repentance, trust and faith.

Jesus brings it home to the Jews.
He declares that many will come from all over the world - from east and west - and will recline with Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.
Jesus is saying that the Gentiles have a place at the table with the Patriarchs.
He then states something which should have chilled the bones of the Jews listening.
“But, the sons of the kingdom will be cast into the outer darkness…”
The chosen ones would be rejected because they rejected.

The servant was healed.
How?
“Go, it shall be done for you as you have believed”

Do you believe?