When an Outsider's Faith is More Than My Own

Reflections from an officer’s friend

. . . Many Romans had been in our town before, but none like him.

This Roman officer was so different. He respected me, a Jew. He watched out for us. He didn’t abuse us. He was so different. He asked questions—really good questions. It was like he really wanted to know about our faith. About the living and true God of the Jews.

He honoured our women. Even they were not afraid of him. He protected them from his soldiers.

He had a servant. He treated him as his own son, while at the same time expecting service and professionalism. The servant actually liked to work for him, a Roman. He felt honoured to serve him.

This Roman was my neighbour. His servant was my son.

And then he got sick. My son got really sick. He was in a coma, and we knew he would die. We started making preparations for his death.

But the Roman said to the Jewish leaders, “Please call Jesus—he can heal my servant, my friend, your son. I know what it is to give orders. When I say ‘do this!’ people do it. I don’t have to plead with them. Actually, there’s no need for Jesus to come all the way to my house. I’m not good enough for him to come in. He can give orders from where he is.”

He had more faith than I did. And when the leaders returned, guess what? My son was well.

Respond in Prayer

Lord, others have faith that is so much more than mine. I am embarrassed. I really don’t have much faith at all. Lord, give me faith to see you, to experience your touch. Today.

Wayne Johnson

Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® (NIV®).