Sing Servant

Friends Forever
by Eleanor van der Merwe

When Jesus had entered Capernaum, a centurion came to him, asking for help. "Lord," he said, "My servant lies at home paralysed and in terrible suffering." Jesus said to him, "I will go and heal him."
Matthew 8:5,6

Highly valued by his master. Building the new synagogue he falls. Paralysed he lies, in excruciating pain. Death is inevitable, according to the doctor. Something must be done! Jesus! He can help.

Oh, great heart of compassion. "I will go". "You don't need to come. You can just give the command and he will be healed". "Go!" The centurion understands. Looking back over his shoulder, wonderingly, he goes. And finds his servant at home, totally restored.

"Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master's happiness."

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The King
by Eleanor van der Merwe

Then Simon Peter, who had a sword, drew it and struck the high priest's servant, cutting off his right ear. (The servant's name was Malchus). But Jesus answered, "No more of this!" And he touched the man's ear and healed him."   John 18:10, Luke 22:51

What a name for a servant? It means king. Impulsive Peter with a sword is dangerous, especially when he is afraid. He cuts off Malchus' ear.

What incredible love Jesus has for his enemy. With a bloody hand Malchus touches his new ear, amazed. No longer the pierced ear of a slave. Forever under new ownership.

The chopped-off ear contributes to Peter's downfall. A family member and fellow servant of Malchus' recognises the fisherman. But Peter denies knowing Jesus. And then the cock crows…

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