Our earthly life is not meant to be in isolation, it is built on relationship with God and people. Today’s Gospel proclamation tells us about the centurion who not only had astonishing faith, but also deep compassion. The miracle that unfolds illustrates the power of Christ. It shows us the power of God revealed through the vessel of community and friendship. In the First reading, Paul also emphasises the power of Christ’s body.

The body of Christ is not only Christ’s body given in sacrifice, but also Christ’s body on earth, the church. Paul instils in us an awareness of others. At times, we are in the position of the centurion, where we are called to stand in the gap for another. At other times, we may be in the slave’s position, too weak to seek God using our own strength. We are not lone soldiers, but we belong to a community that serves the Lord. Let us remind ourselves of the power of the body of Christ – the power of intercession, and the power in reaching out to people that God places in our life as we walk this journey together.

Prayer: Abba Father, release your spirit of compassion upon your church. May we be bold and active in our love for each other. Amen.