Demonstrating kingdom power

As Jesus came down from the mountain he did series of miracles that demonstrated the power of the Kingdom of God which he represents. (W. 1-4; 14-17). The miracles also reveal the compassionate heart of God and his care for both our physical and spiritual needs.

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In this passage, we see Jesus' encounter with the centurion and how he demonstrated great faith in the Lord on behalf of his servant. The centurion must have been a great man. See what great length he was willing to go for a mere servant. How much are we willing to go on behalf of another's physical and spiritual wellbeing? The evidence of real faith is in our action; see how Jesus commended this man's faith. Do we have this kind of faith today?

In vv.19-22 we see two different types of people and how Jesus responded differently to them. J esus obviously had seen the hearts of these men, to the first who sounded very enthusiastic, he basically said, “count the cost.” And to the other who made excuses, his excuse did not move J esus. His command and his kingdom is priority, every other thing is secondary. This does not suggest that Jesus does not know our legitimate needs.

so, which of these two people are we like, impulsive or full of excuses?

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Prayer: Lord, help me to recognise the power and the priority of your kingdom, so that my faith in you would be unshaken and my service unrelenting.