I do not deserve to have you come under my roof. (Luke 7:6)
Many critics in the motion picture industry consider Lawrence of Arabia, directed by David Lean, one of the greatest films of all time. Academy Award–winning director Steven Spielberg was influenced by the production, which features sweeping vistas of the Arabian deserts. Reflecting on the first time he saw it, Spielberg said, “I was inspired. It made me feel puny. It still makes me feel puny. And that’s one measure of its greatness.”
Arturo Toscanini conducted the New York Philharmonic Orchestra in a rehearsal of Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony. At the end of the rehearsal, the orchestra rose and cheered their conductor. With a broken voice and tears in his eyes, Toscanini said, “It isn’t me . . . it’s Beethoven! . . . Toscanini is nothing.”
Both Spielberg and Toscanini were so humbled by something or someone they considered so much greater than themselves that they did not feel worthy by comparison. Apparently, that’s how the centurion felt when he considered the possibility of Jesus coming under his roof to heal his servant.
When we think of how great God is and how small we are, we can begin to feel we do not deserve to have God’s attention. We don’t deserve to have God heal us, whether it be physically, emotionally, or spiritually. If that’s what you think, think again. Be humble, yes, but trust in his compassion toward you.
Don’t hesitate to pray for God’s touch in your life.
Ron McClung is a recently retired minister in The Wesleyan Church. He and his wife, Carol, live in Michigan and look forward to spending time with their two sons, nine grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren.
© 2022 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
