As we begin the season of Advent, the scriptures provide us with an example of living faith today. The gospel account speaks of a moment when Jesus entered Capernaum, a place that was very familiar to him. A centurion approached and appealed to him, saying: 'Lord, my servant is lying at home paralyzed, suffering dreadfully' (Mt 8:6). The question is implicit: Please do something to help!
What is even more surprising is the fact that a centurion - one of the Roman guards - would come to him and ask for help. The fact that this man approached shows that he (the centurion) had heard Jesus speak before. Perhaps he had witnessed such miracles. Perhaps beneath the rough exterior that most of the men of his rank were expected to portray, a seed of faith had begun to germinate in response to God's workings in his own heart.
Advent is a special time when God invites us to awaken the faith that lives within our own hearts. Perhaps this gift has laid dormant. Perhaps it is there but remains hidden. Whatever the circumstances, the invitation is there to water our faith with evidence of God's goodness that is all around us. Let us begin this journey together ... a journey that will lead us to celebrate the birthday of Jesus at Christmas.
Have a great day.
No comments:
Post a Comment