obedience school
"Just give an order." —Matthew 8:8
Jesus learned obedience from what He suffered (Heb 5:8). Even to His dying day, Jesus grew in wisdom (Lk 2:52) regarding obedience. Therefore, we also will always have a lot to learn regarding obedience.
The centurion whose servant was healed by Jesus can teach us the following things about obedience:
- We should ask the Lord to give us commands (Mt 8:8).
- Obedience is often the way to bring healing to ourselves and to others (Mt 8:9).
- Obedience is an expression of faith (Mt 8:10).
- Certain works of God happen at the moment we obey (Mt 8:13; see also Jn 4:52-53).
"Just as through one man's disobedience all became sinners, so through one Man's obedience all shall become just" (Rm 5:19). Jesus "humbled Himself, obediently accepting even death, death on a cross!" (Phil 2:8) Learn obedience as Jesus did. Be obedient as Jesus was. Through the intercession of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, by obedience to the truth purify yourself for a genuine love (1 Pt 1:22). Realize that each time you receive Jesus in Holy Communion you ask Him to give you orders (Mt 8:8). Live a life of obedience (see 1 Pt 1:2).
Prayer: Father, teach me obedience in any way necessary.
Promise: "Rise up, shrill in the night, at the beginning of every watch; pour out your heart like water in the presence of the Lord; lift up your hands to Him." —Lam 2:19
Praise: Walter was not able to have victory over sexual temptations until he dedicated himself to the Immaculate Heart of Mary.
Reference: (For related teaching, order our leaflet, Obedience School.)
Nihil Obstat: Reverend Robert L. Hagedorn, December 16, 1999
Imprimatur: †Most Reverend Carl K. Moeddel, Vicar General and Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, December 18, 1999