Luke 7

Scripture Focus:
“When Jesus heard this he was amazed at him, and turning to the crowd that followed him, he said, ‘I tell you, not even in Israel have I found such faith.’”
— Luke 7:9 (NRSVUE)

Reflection

Luke 7 introduces us to a Roman centurion—a man with power, authority, and influence. Yet, when his servant falls ill, he doesn’t rely on status or strength. Instead, he sends word to Jesus with a simple message of trust: “Just say the word, and my servant will be healed.”

Jesus is astonished. Not by wealth, or power, or eloquence—but by faith.
A faith that believes God’s word is enough.
A faith that trusts without needing proof.
A faith that recognizes Jesus’ authority to heal, restore, and make whole.

Advent invites this same kind of faith—a faith that looks beyond what we can see, believing that God is already at work in unseen ways. Sometimes the miracles we long for begin with a single act of trust. Sometimes “just say the word” is the most powerful prayer we can offer.

In this season of waiting, may we be people whose faith amazes—not because it is perfect, but because it is persistent, humble, and rooted in the belief that God’s promises hold true.

Prayer

God of steadfast love,
You speak, and creation listens.
You call, and life begins again.
Give us faith to trust in Your word,
even when the way forward feels uncertain.
When doubt creeps in, remind us of Your power to heal and restore.
Strengthen our faith until it becomes a witness to Your grace.
In Jesus’ name,
Amen.

Practice

Take a few moments today to rest in silence.
Breathe deeply and repeat this prayer:
“Just say the word, Lord.”

Let those words become your offering of trust.
Then, write down one area of your life where you need to rely on God’s word more than your own control.
Fold that paper and keep it in your Bible or Advent journal as a reminder:
Faith begins with trust, and trust begins with letting go.

Copyright © 2025 Ronda Welander