November 29, Monday Advent Weekday

Let us go rejoicing to the house of the Lord. — Psalm 122

Mass reading: Isaiah 4:2-6 / Matthew 8:5-11

Belief Beyond Words 

Imagine having the faith of the centurion we read about in the famous scene from today’s Gospel. He was a Roman soldier, a pagan, and yet he had more faith in Jesus than many of the disciples did, than many of us do today. We often go to Jesus with requests — cures for all kinds of ills, remedies for all kinds of problems. And we want concrete results. (“Show me the money, Lord!”) 

The centurion believed without expecting any of the high spiritual drama we often hope for. Jesus’ word was enough for him. “Only say the word....” We go to Jesus in prayer and our mouths say the words, but do our hearts believe them? We want answers, but do we truly and completely expect the Lord to give us what we need? 

Prayer: Lord, help me to believe in Your promise of salvation with my whole heart.