REFLECTION FOR TODAY
August 31, 2021
By Fr. Andrew Ibegbulem, OSA
They were all amazed and said to one another, “What is there about his word? For with authority and power he commands the unclean spirits, and they come out.” And news of him spread everywhere in the surrounding region. Lk. 4:36-37
There is a saying “Actions speaks louder than words”. This is well illustrated in the life of Jesus and in the story of the demoniac in Capernaum whom Jesus delivered. The people of Capernaum were spellbound by Jesus’ teaching and astonished at his power.
The reaction Jesus received in Capernaum was much different from that which He received in Nazareth. In Nazareth he received the wrath of his people, so, he travelled to Capernaum. In Capernaum, while He was teaching in the Synagogue, He rebuked the demon and cast it out from a man that was possessed.
What was it that impressed the people of Capernaum? It was the “authority and power” with which Jesus spoke and acted. But it was not only this since Jesus had done so also in Nazareth where the people failed to believe in Him. In Capernaum it wasn’t that Jesus was different, it seems that the people were different.
Jesus won over many hearts in Capernaum because the people were open to the gift of faith. In fact, when Jesus was preparing to leave from Capernaum, the people begged Him to stay. Though eventually Jesus would also encounter resistance from the people there, their initial reaction was one of faith.
Do you want Jesus to act powerfully in your life? Do you want Him to act upon you with authority and power? Many Christians today can feel as though their lives are somewhat out of control. They experience weakness, confusion, a lack of direction or crisis. For that reason, true spiritual “authority and power” is very welcome. What sort of authority and power do you need Jesus to exert over your life today?
Action again speaks loudly today as in the time of Jesus. People are much more likely to believe in a loving God when they see the difference He make in people’s lives. God has placed us in the world to be His ambassadors. He has called us to bring the Good News of Christ to the world. How open are we to the authority and power of Jesus?
Reflect, today, upon the infinite spiritual authority and power of our Lord. It is a power beyond anything else we could imagine. He wants to exercise this authority in your life out of love. What is hindering Him from taking greater control of your life? What sin or temptation does Jesus want to rebuke in your life? From what oppression does He want to set you free? Reflect upon yourself being a member of the town of Capernaum who fully welcomes Jesus, is amazed at Him and desires Him in your life. His working in your life depends upon you and your response to Him. Call on Him and let Him in.
Lord, You and You alone can take authority over my life and bring order and peace. Please remove any doubt and stubbornness from my heart so that I can open myself to You and Your grace. Take authority of my life, dear Lord, and lead me into Your most holy will. Jesus, I trust in You.