“And a certain centurion’s servant, who was dear to him, was sick and ready to die. So when he heard about Jesus, he sent elders of the Jews to Him…” ~ Luke 7:2-3
REFERENCE:
Here is a famous text that paints the beautiful story of faith found in a gentile man, like a rose flower in a thornbush. Three main characters arrest our attention in the story: the sufferer (the centurion’s servant), the supplicant (the centurion who prayed to Jesus), and the Savior (Jesus Christ). The text speaks of the power of service, loyalty, loving intercession, and the power of God.
One character that often captures my attention in this narrative is the servant, and for good reason. Who is this individual who compels his master, a Roman centurion, to be so concerned for him that he goes to great lengths to seek aid, particularly in a society where slaves were often regarded as mere property? Who is this sufferer who prompts his master, the Jewish elders, and Jesus to take action?
The text describes this ‘sufferer’ as dear to his master, a servant unlike any other. ‘Dear’ implies that the servant was valued, cherished, and beloved by his master. Perhaps he was attentive to his master’s needs, anticipating his desires (like David’s three soldiers at Bethlehem’s well). He was a servant who served his master with genuine devotion, not just when he was being watched, but in all matters, big and small. He was reliable and selfless, always striving to please his master.
‘Dear’ also implies cherished, beloved, darling, bosom, and lovable. These are not typically used to describe a master’s relationship with his servant. Still, this servant left a profound impression on his boss through his exceptional work ethic and loyal love. Do you work for an organization or someone else? Can the same be said about you, that the organization, department, team, or boss cherish you? There must be something about you that brings a sweet fragrance wherever you go.
I pray that, by the sweet graces of the Holy Spirit, you will become so valued by your company, boss, or institution because of your exceptional work ethic, diligence, and loyalty. May your brilliance make you stand out until you are recommended for promotion, appointments, or a pay raise. At whatever level you are right now – a student, line staff, house assistant, shop attendant, etc., may you become so dear to God that He will pave the way for you to the top, in Jesus’ name.
PHOTO QUOTE
ADDITIONAL TEXTS:
2 Samuel 23:14-17, Ephesians 6:5-8, and Colossians 3:23-24
PRAYER:
+ Lord, I pray for grace to be a faithful and diligent servant/worker wherever I find myself – to serve Your will, people, organization, or institution with great passion and purpose.
+ Father, let the aroma of favor be upon me until I come to the notice of those who need my skill sets and are ready to patronize and promote me, in Jesus’ name.
