John 4:47-53 Great Faith Results in Belief

When he heard that Jesus had come out of Judea into Galilee, he went to Him and was imploring Him to come down and heal his son; for he was at the point of death.  So Jesus said to him, “Unless you people see signs and wonders, you simply will not believe.” The royal official said to Him, “Sir, come down before my child dies.”  Jesus said to him, “Go; your son lives.” The man believed the word that Jesus spoke to him and started off.  As he was now going down, his slaves met him, saying that his son was living.  So he inquired of them the hour when he began to get better. Then they said to him, “Yesterday at the seventh hour the fever left him.” So the father knew that it was at that hour in which Jesus said to him, “Your son lives”; and he himself believed and his whole household.

The mission of Jesus is that He was sent first the Israel and then to the gentiles.  But the most significant stories of faith come from the gentiles.  In today’s event, a gentile father seeks out Jesus at a distance from where he lives.  He implores Jesus to heal his son, because he knew he was able.  Jesus tested his faith by healing him with his word and  not going to see the boy.  The text says that he believed.  Following this, on his journey back home he learns his son was made well at the very hour of his interaction with Jesus. Then the whole household believed.  This even is a forerunner to Jesus ultimate healing where eternal life is given to those who believe and call on His name.

Daily Prayer:  Lord Jesus, give me this spirit of belief not only for eternal life but for all of what you say and do.  In Your holy name I pray Amen.