I recently took a road trip. It took about 12 hours, but the landscapes were pleasantly surprising in their beauty and were a cause for continual praise to Jesus, the Creator of so much wonder. As human beings, we are amazed by His creative power, His love that was capable of leaving heaven and giving His life for a sinful world, and His mercy that sustains us every day. Jesus never ceases to amaze us!
Have you ever wondered if there is anything that surprises Jesus? Is it possible for us, mere mortals, to amaze our Lord? The quick answer is that it could not be possible; however, the biblical record tells us of a time when Jesus was amazed.
Jesus was entering Capernaum when a Roman centurion pleaded with Him, “Lord, my servant is lying at home paralyzed, dreadfully tormented.” Jesus answered, “I will come and heal him” (Matthew 8:6, 7). Jesus said He would go and heal him, but the frank and confident response of this pagan Roman soldier reveals unprecedented assurance: “Lord, I am not worthy that you should come under my roof. But only speak a word, and my servant will be healed. For I also am a man under authority, having soldiers under me. And I say to this one, ‘Go,’ and he goes; and to another, ‘Come,’ and he comes; and to my servant, ‘Do this,’ and he does it” (verses 8, 9).
These words were not merely the product of military logic; they reveal his complete trust in divine authority. “The centurion, born in heathenism, educated in the idolatry of imperial Rome, trained as a soldier, seemingly cut off from spiritual life by his education and surroundings . . . perceived the truth to which the children of Abraham were blinded. . . . As the “light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world” (John 1:9) had shone upon him, he had, though afar off, discerned the glory of the Son of God.”1
That faith surprised Jesus, and He declared, “I tell you the truth, I haven’t seen faith like this in all Israel!” (verse 10, NLT).2 Imagine that moment: Jesus, the Son of God, the Creator of the universe, was amazed! Not by grand temples or rituals, but by this man’s genuine faith. Jesus marvels at that kind of faith: a faith that opens the heavens, inspires limitless belief, and goes beyond human expectations.
The centurion not only obtained his miracle, but also the admiration of the Miracle Maker. This reminds us that in every situation, God seeks hearts that fully trust in Him. Hebrews 11:6 (NLT) says, “It is impossible to please God without faith.”
Today, we can have the courage to say to the Lord, “Just say the word.” This simple, yet faith-filled act has the power to unleash the wonders of God in our lives. It is time not only for Jesus to surprise us (in fact, He surprises us every minute and second with His love and care); it is time to live a faith that leaves Jesus in awe. Do you dare to live such a faith?
How To Surprise Jesus
Believe beyond reason. Trust in Jesus without needing proof or guarantees.
Recognize His authority. A word from Him is enough to change everything; He is in control.
Don't be limited by your past. Jesus looks at your faith, not your history.
Peter Simpson is a missionary, has a doctorate in Theology, and has served the church in several different countries. He writes from Vancouver, Washington.
