“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 7:7).
The word about Jesus, His miracles, healings, and teachings spread
throughout the land. A Roman Centurion heard about Jesus and the
miracles/healings He performed.
Initially, the Centurion sent a delegation of Jewish elders to ask Jesus
to come and heal his servant. Jesus didn’t decline the request and set off in
the direction of the Centurion’s house.
This narrative is peppered with several highly unusual things.
We read about a good Centurion, a godly Centurion. A Roman
soldier/officer involved in the life of the village/town that was under
authority. He loved the nation and built the synagogue (v.5). He had a
servant who was dear to him. A skilled and faithful servant, we presume.
We read that he had a good report/relationship with the elders of the
village. They came to talk Jesus into addressing the Centurion’s plea: “This man deserves to have you do this…”
(v.4).
Strangely, we find Jesus on His way to the Centurion’s house (v.6).
Think about it…not long ago He was accused of eating and drinking with
the tax collectors and sinners (Luke 5:30). Now He was headed towards the house
of a Gentile…and a Roman army officer at that.
As they were approaching the house, another delegation approached Jesus
with the message, ”…Lord, don’t trouble
yourself, for I do not deserve to have you come under my roof” (v6)…but say the word, and my servant will
be healed” (v.7).
Well…that was Jesus’
“speciality”, was it not? He was a man of the Word – He was the Word – the
powerful Word of the living God.
The Roman Centurion invited the Word to say the word of healing so that his servant may get well! A great faith…unusual faith indeed!