The Faith of a Roman Soldier: How’s your faith?

Where are you in your faith?

“When Jesus heard this, he was amazed and said to those following him, “Truly I tell you, I have not found anyone in Israel with such great faith.” Matthew 8:10 NIV

Reflection

I suspect you believe in God. As a Christian you believe in the resurrected Jesus. You might even attend church services. Perhaps weekly? No doubt on the major church events. But how is your faith?

Maybe you get some inbox devotionals. Perhaps you listen to a few podcasts. Perhaps you know some scripture by heart. Perhaps you even have a small group. But how is your faith?

In Mathew, we encounter a Roman soldier. We probably see them as harsh men. After all, they scourged our Lord (plus countless others), nailed him to the cross (plus countless others), mocked him, and pierced his side with a sword, so he was really dead. How could you not see a Roman soldier as a ruthless man?

However, the soldier we see here is a loving man. His servant was ill. He had no way of healing that person. So he leaned into faith in Jesus. Jesus was so impressed by this faith he called it out in Mathew 8:10.

He is a respectful man. He not only comes to get healing for another, but he also respects Jesus and knows that Jesus can do anything at any time. Because of that faith, the almighty creator of all is marveled at this. Celebrates by telling those around him and grants the prayer of this man. So we have this example in our bible. I suspect that was on purpose.

So, where are you in your faith? Is it that of a Roman Soldier?

The Holy Spirit in us is to be trusted. Is to be leaned into. Is to be respected. This beautiful gift of a teacher, a guide, and a voice of love awaits our deep faith. Jesus died at the hands of Roman soldiers. Yet, through that death and resurrection, we have the gift of the Holy Spirit. The giver of life. Who with the Father and the Son should be acknowledged, glorified, and called on.

So,where is your faith? If you are not there yet, do what you can to get there. Trust God like the soldier did, and be a warrior for him. Bring love to others. Prayers for their healing. Ears to listen. Shoulders to lean on. Words to inspire. Have a faith in Jesus that will be celebrated like a Roman soldier.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank you for this example. A reminder that our faith needs to be all in. That you are not far away from us but right here and right now. Give us the courage to place our faith in you. To be fully embraced and accepting of your will. Allow us to be the person who represents a belief in you as good and if not better than a Roman soldier. Lord I am not worthy that you should enter my roof but only if it is your will heal my soul. In Jesus name we pray. Amen