Brothers and sisters,
As we begin this first week of Advent, the Church gives us a surprising figure to teach us how to prepare our hearts for the coming of Christ: not a prophet, not a disciple, not even a member of the chosen people — but a Roman centurion.
He is a man of power, authority, and status. He commands soldiers. He represents an occupying force. And yet this man, whose very presence in Israel symbolized domination, reveals something extraordinary: a heart profoundly open to God, filled with humility and faith.
When he approaches Jesus, he does not come proudly. He does not demand a favor. He does not rely on rank or position. Instead, he says words so honest, so humble, that the Church places them on our lips at every Mass:
“Lord, I am not worthy that you should enter under my roof,
but only say the word and my servant shall be healed.”
These are Advent words.
Words of someone who knows that he needs a Savior.
Words of someone who recognizes holiness when he sees it.
Words of someone whose heart is ready to receive the Lord.
Advent is a season of expectation — yes — but also a season of humility.
To prepare for Christ, we first acknowledge our need for Him. The centurion understands that he cannot heal his servant, cannot fix this by his own strength, cannot save by his own power. And neither can we. We need Christ to heal our hearts, our families, our wounds, and our world.
Humility opens the door for God.
Pride closes it.
During Advent we prepare our homes, our churches, our hearts.
But the centurion reminds us of something essential:
We don’t make ourselves worthy.
Christ makes us worthy.
May our prayer each day be:
“Lord, I am not worthy — but please come.
Come into my life, my home, my heart.
Say the word, and I shall be healed.”
Have a wonderful week
