It's easy to amaze a child: kick a soccer ball high into the air, and you'll get a big "Wow!" It's easy to astonish a teenager: use some of "their" language correctly. It's also easy to impress an adult: remember his or her name without being prompted the second time you meet.
But what did it take to amaze Jesus, the One who himself amazed religious leaders, impressed crowds of people, and surprised his own disciples?
In our reading for today we find that Jesus was amazed at the faith of a centurion. In fact, Jesus used it as an illustration for an impromptu faith lesson. The centurion was not supposed to be one of God's people. He was a Gentile. But he trusted that Jesus could heal his servant-from a distance! Not even the Jews, the people who already had a special relationship with God, had shown such faith.
The Bible mentions only one other time when Jesus was so affected by the human beings around him: when he was amazed at the lack of faith among the people of Nazareth (Mark 6:6).
I want to amaze Jesus today by a growing faith that lives out my discipleship in bold and faithful ways. Jesus is delighted-and there is rejoicing in heaven-whenever the Holy Spirit leads people to faith and new life in Christ (Luke 15:10).
<p>We want to delight you, O God. Thank you for making this possible through the work of your Spirit, who keeps growing faith within us. In the Savior's name we pray. Amen.</p>
About the author — David Den Haan
Pastor Dave Den Haan has served at Fairway Christian Reformed Church in Jenison, Michigan, since 1999. Previously he served a church in Minnesota. Dave and his wife, Connie, have three children.
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