A miracle of Jesus · Part 8 of 20 · 4 min
The Centurion’s Trust
A centurion lived in Capernaum. He was an officer in the Roman army. One of his servants was very sick, and he cared about his suffering.
The centurion asked the elders of the town to speak to Jesus for his sick servant. They went to find Jesus and pleaded for his help. (He is worthy for you to grant him this; because he loves our nation, and he built us a synagogue.) They explained that the officer cared about their community and had helped build their synagogue. Jesus listened to their request and agreed to go with them.
Jesus began walking toward the house.
But the centurion sent a message. He did not think himself worthy to receive Jesus under his roof. He believed a word from Jesus was enough to heal the servant.
He knew what giving an order meant. When he told his soldiers something, they responded.
He trusted that Jesus had far greater authority.
Jesus marveled at his trust. He found it in a man who was not part of the Jewish people.
His love and help were not locked inside one family or nation.
The messengers returned to the house.
They found the sick servant well.
The centurion's concern received an answer that brought joy to the home.
This story shows humble trust. The centurion had authority, but he did not try to order Jesus around.
He asked for help and recognized his goodness.
It also reminds us to care about people who work or serve beside us. A person is more than a job to be done.
We can learn the names of people who help us, thank them, and treat them respectfully.
Jesus welcomed this request with love. We can listen to another person's needs without first asking whether they belong to our group.
Jesus cares and helps, and we can share his kindness.
Retelling of Luke 7:1–10; Matthew 8:5–13.
Supporting reading: The Desire of Ages, chapter 32. Open the book
Talk about it together
- Trust in God
- Humility
- Compassion
- Who did the centurion seek help for when his servant was ill?
- What does his concern show about how he saw that servant?
- How can you thank someone who helps in your community?
Activity · 2–5 minutes
People Behind the Work
Name people who help at home, school, or in the neighborhood. Think of their names, not only their jobs. Choose one and prepare a respectful thank-you sentence you can say when you see them again.
Try it today: I can respect the people who help me and care about how they are.
More stories with these values
Maze
Open the interactive activity or prepare a printable sheet for home, classroom, or family.
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