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 a related teaching, order our leaflet Obedience School or on tape titled Obeying God as audio AV 62-3 or video V-62.)
Rescript: †Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, January 2, 2014
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