John 4:46-50
“Now he was back in Cana of Galilee, the place where he made the water into wine. Meanwhile in Capernaum, there was a certain official from the king’s court whose son was sick. When he heard that Jesus had come from Judea to Galilee, he went and asked that he come down and heal his son, who was on the brink of death. Jesus put him off: ‘Unless you people are dazzled by a miracle, you refuse to believe.’ But the court official wouldn’t be put off. ‘Come down! It’s life or death for my son.’ Jesus simply replied, ‘Go home. Your son lives.’”
“As he traveled through Galilee, he came to Cana, where he had turned the water into wine. There was a government official in nearby Capernaum whose son was very sick. When he heard that Jesus had come from Judea to Galilee, he went and begged Jesus to come to Capernaum to heal his son, who was about to die. Jesus asked, Will you never believe in me unless you see miraculous signs and wonders?’ The official pleaded, ‘Lord, please come now before my little boy dies.’ Then Jesus told him, ‘Go back home. Your son will live!’ And the man believed what Jesus said and started home.”
Jesus often tests supplicants in the Gospels with this accusation. It’s as if he was asking, “If your focus on me, or a miracle?” I imagine most have no idea themselves, but Jesus knows. In asking this question he forces us to look inward and consider, allowing the Spirit to search and illuminate our hearts.
This official loves his son. When he came to the end of his own efforts, he humbled himself, seeking the healing touch of an itinerant teacher. His son’s life was dearer to him than his pride. Something in the manner of Jesus’ words of healing honored the man’s love and gave him the faith to leave and return home. God knows all about a father’s love for his son.
Lord you provide so much sustenance for me. Let my need continue driving me to you. Never let my need become primary and eclipse your glory. Thank you for using this official’s example to teach me about faith and love. They drive each other in a circle, and I love being caught up in it!