Readings:
Isaiah 2:1-5
Psalm 122:1-9
Matthew 8:5-11
Welcome to the season of Advent.
The Church's liturgical year is set up in such a way that we ponder the entire life of Christ in different seasons and at different times. Advent is a preparation for the celebration of the first coming of Christ (at Christmas). It also focuses us upon the final coming of Christ on the last day. The first and most important step in this preparation is faith in the authority of Jesus Christ. We see an example of this faith in the words of the centurion: "Sir, I am not worthy to have you under my roof; just give the word and my servant will be cured. For I am under authority myself, and have soldiers under me."
Jesus was pleased with his faith and says to him in reply: "I tell you solemnly, nowhere in Israel have I found faith like this." What can we learn from this encounter between Jesus and the centurion?
Authority is a good thing when it is properly exercised for the good of the society, the family, the church and even over oneself (in self-discipline).
The centurion's humility made it possible for him to acknowledge Jesus' authority. We too must be humble if we hope to experience God's divine power in our lives.
The presence of evil does not negate the power of God. It only proves that chaos rules when we refuse to submit to God's authority.
When you face difficulties, turn to Jesus. Understand that evil (though not from God) is an opportunity to seek His face and allow His grace work through you.
Don't allow your difficulties cause you to turn in on yourself in self-pity, anger, fearfulness, anxiety and doubt. These will only make you miserable.
God desires to use your situation to transform and enrich your knowledge of Him. If He has not granted your petition the way you want, is it possible that He is inviting you to a deeper knowledge of yourself?
One quality we must always have, is a certain conviction that God desires to exercise His loving authority in our lives, in the way He chooses. We have to trust Him and invite Him to take control.
JUDE-MARY OWOH
To surrender your life to Christ, say this prayer aloud: “Father, I acknowledge my sin against You. I repent and ask for forgiveness, in the name of Jesus. I surrender to the Lordship of Jesus. By the power of Your Holy Spirit, take control of my heart and lead me in Your path of righteousness. Thank you, Lord.”
If you said the prayer, Congratulations! Prayerfully look for a living church and meet the resident reverend, pastor or priest.
Prayer:
All-powerful Father, all authority belongs to You. I entrust to You my life and every situation that needs Your powerful touch.
Please strength my faith and help me see that you are always in control of my life. Amen.
May the Lord preserve my life, my home and work and fulfil His purpose for my life and all that belongs to me today and always even when I walk in the midst of trouble, in Jesus' name.
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