No matter how tall the mountain is, it cannot block the sun. Similarly, a Roman centurion acknowledged his limitations before the power of Jesus. The centurion came seeking Jesus’ help for his paralysed and distressed servant. Jesus replied, “I will come and heal him.” The centurion responded: “Lord, I am not worthy to have you come under my roof, but only say the word and my servant will be healed.” The centurion pleaded for help without letting his high status overwhelm him; he was truly a humble man. His actions teach a practical lesson on the strength of humility. Once, there was a tall tree that stood proudly, boasting of its height, until a storm uprooted it. Nearby, a humble reed bent low, swaying with the wind. When the storm passed, the reed remained standing, unbroken; humility saved its life. Wise people say that the clothing of humility never goes out of style. He also had strong faith in Jesus and believed in God's power to heal from afar: “Only say the word, and my servant will be healed.” Moreover, he neither showed entitlement nor claimed worthiness to have Jesus visit his house. No one is deserving of God's grace, healing, mercy, and blessings. None is entitled to all these. The centurion understood this well. Can we emulate such genuine faith, remarkable humility, and loving concern shown by the centurion? Matthew 8:5-11; Monday, 1st Week of Advent