The Centurion's Gladius

I'd like to start off 2024 with a little departure from turning my characters into pro wrestlers to do something a little more serious.

In the Gospels, a Roman centurion, concerned for his servant who was very ill, sent for Jesus believing that He had the power to heal the sick. Declaring that he wasn't even worthy to have Jesus come into his home, he asked simply that the word be spoken, knowing that would be sufficient for the miracle of healing to be performed. It's said that Jesus marveled at the man's great faith, stating that He had not found the likes of it in all of Israel. Whenever I read or hear of this account, I'm reminded of how seldom I even come close to measuring up to this enormous example of faith. I pray that the Lord would strengthen my faith in this coming year. May we all remember the one in whom our faith is worthy to be placed, may our faith be exercised and increased, and may we ever give praise and honor to the Lord.