Luke 7:1-10: Just one Word from the King…

A few years ago I was attending my denomination’s conference in the Welsh town of Prestatyn. At the time I had great concerns over a health problem faced by a member of my family. I went to North Wales that particular year feeling battered and bruised, and heavy with anxiety.According to the programme, on the Thursday afternoon there was to be a session for leaders and their wives led by Godfrey Birtill, a well known worship leader. I didn’t really feel like attending, but I thought that I ought to. I am so glad I did go along.It turned out to be one of the best services I’ve ever attended. One song in particular that Godfrey led us in said, ‘Just one touch from the King changes everything’. That spoke to me so powerfully and stayed with me in the weeks and months afterwards.

In this lovely story found in Luke chapter 7, the Centurion recognised that just one word from the King would change everything. He was a man of authority who knew what it was to be under authority and therefore to have authority. He recognised authority when He saw it. For Jesus, as the God-Man, His Word is His action. Just one Word from the King…just one touch. It amounts to the same reality. It’s interesting that those who spoke up on behalf of the Centurion said he deserved Christ’s help. He himself said he didn’t. Nevertheless he humbly asked for Jesus’ intervention, and he got it.

I find it comforting to know that Jesus is Lord over space. We can be far removed from our loved ones but it doesn’t stop us praying for them and trusting Jesus to help.

It was some time after leaving that conference that healing wonderfully came to my close relative. It wasn’t the work of a moment. It came gradually, over time, with a number of ups and downs and twists and turns. But today I can look back and say I know the King touched; I know that He spoke the healing word., and it changed everything.

Prayer: Thank you Jesus for your healing Word; thank you for your authority. I am grateful for your powerful work in my life and your many answers to prayer.