Monday 28 November

Isaiah 4:2-6; Ps 122:1-9; Matthew 8:5-11

Authority or compassion

The response of the centurion to Jesus is very familiar to us. It is our response before we receive holy communion. I think the centurion recognised Jesus’ compassion rather than his authority. After all, he had the faith to know Jesus would respond in this way. I am not worthy – what does it mean for me? Is it the acknowledgement that we need God’s grace, God’s compassion and God’s healing touch? We receive the gift of Jesus in Holy Communion. Like the centurion, we give thanks for the gift given.