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Authority and GodMonday, December 4, 2017
From Matthew 8 But this story is not about killing. It is about authority, which the centurion immediately recognized in Jesus. Authority to take control is an earned right, the result of prior obedience. Jesus only did what he saw his father doing. His words about their relationship ooze obedience. In my life, for various psychological reasons, I've bucked authority. I have chosen unconventional ways of living, said things intentionally that offended others, and generally felt pretty good about following my own way. This is a choice I often continue to take. But underneath this lifestyle I feel an undercurrent of fear. Insecurity whispers to me. Shadows lurk and sometimes leap at me from unexpected places. Usually at night. What I appreciate from the centurion is a deeper understanding of the authority God has over me. He has, in fact, given me authority to obey. He has made me free to be obedient, and given me the power to do so. This is a gift I have not embraced, but a gift I want to claim today. As I live with this change, I notice I'm more quiet, more peaceful, less uncertain. I feel less brittle and demanding. These moments of confidence are not centered on myself but on the idea that I, too, only do what my father is doing. In this way, Jesus teaches me, disciples me, shows me how to live. Can I get an Amen, Jesus? I love it when you smile at me, and touch my head, and say for just this moment, "Well, done, David." Show me the difference between false pride and joyful acceptance of your gift. Show me again and again. Your world, Lord, is not MY oyster. But I am so grateful for all that you have given. |
Centurions led legions into battle. They trained for war, made war, and gloried in war. They were killers on command. They were disciplined and insisted on disciplined legionaries. They expected instant obedience and mostly received it. Most centurions eventually died violently, even as they killed. Jesus knew what he was talking about when he rebuked Peter's violence in the Garden.