Marvel

Daily Reading: Matthew 8

When Jesus heard this, he marveled and said to those who followed him, “Truly, I tell you, with no one in Israel have I found such faith.” (Matthew 8.10)

Devotional Thought: An officer in the Roman army knew authority from personal experience.  In this centurion's encounter with Jesus, we see that he recognized authority in Jesus, asking him to “say the word, and my servant will be healed” (v. 8). 

Jesus “marvels” at the faith of this centurion!  There is only one other place in the gospels where Jesus marvels at something – in Mark 6.6, he marvels at the unbelief of his own people, the Jews in Nazareth.  This contrast is perhaps what leads him to make what must have been a shocking statement to his listeners: “Truly, I tell you, with no one in Israel have I found such faith.  I tell you, many will come from east and west and recline at table with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob in the kingdom of heaven, while the sons of the kingdom will be thrown into the outer darkness” (vv. 10-11).

How about our own faith?  Many of us have had moments of revelation - through his Word, through our circumstances, through a peace that surpasses understanding, and perhaps for a few, through physical miracles.  In addition, the Spirit of God dwells in us, so we are without excuse.  May the genuineness of our faith cause those around us to marvel, “to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ” (1 Peter 1.7)!

Jenny Wade

Prayer: Lord, I marvel at your power and your goodness.  But I must ask, does my faith cause you to marvel?  Help me to believe you for all things.  Amen.

Psalm of the Day: Psalm 89.14-18

14 Righteousness and justice are the foundation of your throne; steadfast love and faithfulness go before you. 15 Blessed are the people who know the festal shout, who walk, O Lord, in the light of your face, 16 who exult in your name all the day and in your righteousness are exalted. 17 For you are the glory of their strength; by your favor our horn is exalted. 18 For our shield belongs to the Lord, our king to the Holy One of Israel.