Lord, I am not worthy to have you under my roof, but only say the word

Gen. 18:1-15, Mt. 8:5-17. Today's first reading narrates the prophecy of the birth of Isaac, the son of Abraham and Sarah. God fulfils the divine promise to give an offspring to Abraham. True to the culture of his time, Abraham offers hospitality to three strangers who pass his tent pitched near the oak of Mamre. At first, Abraham did not realise that the strangers are the Angels of the Lord. Abraham goes out of his way to provide hospitality by providing “a little food.” He tells Sarah to take almost three measures of flour in order to prepare rolls. Abraham chooses a tender choice steer to be slaughtered and prepared for the guests. Abraham serves his visitors himself rather than have one of his own servants serve them. After the three have enjoyed the generosity of Abraham, they issue a promise that the ninety-year old Sarah will give birth to a son within a year’s time.

Sarah, who has been listening in the tent besides the place where the guests are feasting, laughs to herself and doubts the words of the strangers. Then when Abraham was questioned about her laughter, she denies her lack of belief in the prophecy. In contrast, the Centurion who approached Jesus in today's Gospel was not only courageous, but faith-filled as well. He risked the ridicule of his colleagues and mockery from the Jews for seeking for help from a travelling preacher from Galilee. Hence, he humbly asked the Lord to command him and acknowledging His power and authority, put his whole trust in His ability to cure and make his servant whole once again. The Lord was indeed impressed by this faith and made the Centurion as an example of one who was often looked down and being prejudiced against by the Jewish people and yet, showed more faith in the Lord than the supposed children and descendants of Abraham. Contrast to the faith of the Army Centurion with the lack of faith that Sarah had and we need to believe in the Lord and put our faith in Him. Let us seek the Lord with renewed faith and commitment, knowing that He loves us, without exception. Just as He has reached out even to the Army Centurion, He shall also reach out to all of us as well, as His love is universal.

May the Lord help us to be sincere in seeking the His love, mercy and forgiveness and draw us closer to Him and His grace! Amen!! Good morning and do have a glorious weekend!!!