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The Spirit of Prophecy Volume 2
confidence. He feels the solemn assurance that he has talked with One
whose power is unlimited. No doubt crosses his mind that Jesus has
really healed his son at Capernaum. While still some distance from
home, his servants meet him with the glad tidings that his son has
recovered. With a light heart he hurries on, and, as he approaches his
house, is met by the child, bounding out to receive him, radiant in
health and beauty. He clasps him to his heart as one restored from the
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dead, and thanks God again and again for this miraculous restoration.
The centurion and all his household become disciples of Jesus.
Thus their affliction was sanctified to the conversion of the entire
family. They published this miracle through all Capernaum, and thus
opened the way for Christ’s further labors there. Many of his most
wonderful works were done at that place.
This case of the centurion should be a lesson to all the followers
of Christ. He would have them place implicit faith in him as their
Redeemer, ready and willing to save all who come unto him. But he
sometimes delays bestowing his precious gifts, in order to impress
our hearts with a sense of our deep need of that true piety which
entitles us to ask of him what we will. We are to lay by the selfishness
that is frequently the sole cause of seeking him, and, confessing our
helplessness and bitter need, trust in his promises. He invites all to
come unto him who are weary and heavy-laden, and he will give them
rest.
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