John 4:42-54
And he himself believed, and all his household.
As pastors, sometimes our ministry takes us from weddings in the morning to funeral wakes in the evening, all on the same day. Going from one of life’s most joyous occasions to one that bears witness to life’s inevitable but no-less sombre end, the pastor’s job is to remind the families and guests that Jesus is present in both the good and bad times of life. Just like he was there to provide a wedding party with great wine, just like he was there to minister to a father faced with his son’s imminent death.
The first and second signs have much in common. In both miracles:
- Jesus tested the requesters’ faith. He resisted Mary’s request at first, and he rebuked the royal official as someone who demands signs before believing in him.
- Blind obedience was required. The servants were told to serve cleansing water to the master of the banquet, and the royal official was told to go, as his son was going to live.
- Jesus showed his glory and power. He spoke and it was done. Jesus revealed himself as the co-eternal Creator with the Father.
- The witnesses believed and placed their trust in him. Both the disciples and the royal official and his family were given proof for their faith to be strengthened.
This is who our Lord is–mighty, powerful, and all-present in our lives. The attitude of the royal official teaches us how we should approach this Almighty God. When Jesus tests his motives, the royal official doesn’t stomp his foot and demand to be heard because of his position. He appeals to Jesus on the basis of his son’s great need. This is a position of humility, pleading for the mercy of someone he deems higher than himself.
When Jesus tells him to go, for his son will live, the official believes in Jesus and takes him at his word. He only meets his servant on his way home the next day and hears the confirmation of his faith. As a result, he and his whole household believe.
Reflection: Sometimes we may feel that God owes us protection and smooth sailing lives because we’ve been a Christian for a long time, or we’ve served in the church sacrificially. But we’ve got to remember, there is nothing we can do to earn his grace or mercy. Is there a miracle we are asking for? Have we been angry at the Lord for making us wait, for not giving us what we asked for? Let us humble ourselves and place our trust in him to work in his perfect way, in his perfect timing.
Let the words of this hymn be our prayer today.
Indeed, it is so sweet to trust in you, Jesus,
Just to take you at your Word,
Just to rest upon your promise,
Just to know, “Thus saith the Lord.”
Jesus, Jesus, how I trust you,
How I’ve proved you over and over,
Jesus, Jesus, precious Jesus,
Give me grace to trust you more.
Amen.