And when Jesus was entered into Capernaum, there came unto Him a centurion, beseeching Him. Matthew 8:5
The first time we encounter something that turns out to be important, we usually remember. Our first day at school, our first driving lesson, our first meeting with the person we eventually married, these are all significant events because of the impact that they had on the rest of our lives. We read of one such encounter today in our text. And this encounter was important, not only to the centurion, but to all of us who come from European descent. This is one of the first recorded meetings between Jesus and a European Gentile. And this centurion came with the same attitude that we require.
The Saviour came first to the Israelites. He was the fulfillment of all of Israel’s dreams and hopes, although as a nation, they failed to recognize and accept Him. The vast majority of those who have and are accepting Him are gentiles, and the majority of those are of European stock. So Jesus’ encounter with this Roman officer was an event with tremendous significance. Without an obvious claim on the Lord Jesus, this centurion came humbly, pleading for grace. That he received what he asked is proof of the Saviour’s lovingkindness. Jesus declared that this man’s faith topped all that He had encountered to that point in His ministry. And He reminded his followers that it was the gentiles who would enter into the kingdom before many of the Jews. He was announcing the upcoming opening of a great door that we have been brought through these many centuries later. What an event this was!
And yet, just as the centurion was humble and acted on faith alone, we too must realize we have no right to access the salvation and blessings that Jesus provides. Although we have no right, He responds in love and grace in giving to us. Well might we beseech, just like the centurion. But the Saviour’s love is for all.
Do you take your salvation for granted? Do you view the blessings and promises of Christ to be your right? Take a second look… we are outsiders, strangers, foreigners. Anything and everything we have is not because of us, but because of the One who loves us anyway. -Jim MacIntosh