1 Timothy 2:1-8 / Luke 7:1-10
The gift of faith is indeed a wonderful thing.
But when this gift of faith is shown by unexpected people or persons, then it is really amazing.
Such was the case with the centurion in the gospel passage.
Being a soldier and a pagan, he was not likely to be a prominent figure in the religious circles.
But when he showed his faith in Jesus, even Jesus was amazed - He was "astonished"!
But was there something else about the centurion besides his gift of faith? Could it also be that his military discipline had an influence on him?
We can say that the centurion took Jesus seriously. He didn't take Jesus for granted. He believed in the authority of Jesus.
In the 1st reading, St. Paul urges Christians to offer prayers especially for those in authority.
We pray that those in authority will be guided by the Holy Spirit to do what is right and good and just.
Just as the centurion was guided to seek the help of Jesus, may those in authority also be helped by our prayers to rule wisely.
Let us have faith in our prayers and God will be please to answer our prayers