This Sunday we center our attention to the power of God’s Word. Christ was not only the bearer and messenger of God’s mighty Word, as were the prophets and Apostles, but the very Word of God incarnate, having the powers to command the waves, cast out demons, raise the dead, heal the sick.
The Gospel for this Sunday tells of time when a Roman officer came to Jesus and said, “Lord, I am not worthy to have You come under my roof; but only say a word, and my servant will be healed. When Jesus heard what the officer said, He marveled and replied, “Not even in Israel have I found such faith…; be it done for you as you have believed. And the centurion servant was healed at that very moment.
God’s Word has power but also human words carry power. Speech is a unique aspect of personhood. Words are special instruments which, by God’s creative design, impart a personal quality to human existence.
Words have power because they have meaning. Words have power because they can disclose truth. Words have power because they can change lives. Through words, we affect each other’s feelings, thinking, and actions.
A sincere, loving Word inspires and encourages. A harsh, judgmental word alienates and destroys. Jesus spoke words of grace and forgiveness.
To abide in Christ’s words is to love Him and to live a new life in union with Him and the Father. For it says, “If one loves me, he will keep my word, and my Father will love him, and we will come to Him and make our home with him.”
This is the essence of today’s gospel: the power of God’s Word.
