163 of 365 - Unbelief

When Jesus heard these things, he marveled at him, and turning to the crowd that followed him, said, “I tell you, not even in Israel have I found such faith.” Luke 7:9
 
Marvel… “a sense of astonishment, whether critical or inquisitive, or admiration with a nuance of awe or fear.”

Marveled is repeatedly mentioned in the Bible, generally concerning the crowds’ reaction to what Jesus is teaching and doing.

But Jesus -- God in the flesh -- marvels only on two occasions: Faith and unbelief.

The centurion – not only a Gentile(non-Jew) but a Roman soldier; the enemy of the Jews – is the one with faith. He believed Jesus would heal his servant and friend, even if Jesus just spoke it to be so. And from miles away, with a word from Jesus, his servant & friend is healed. Unexpected and pure belief. Jesus marveled at his faith.

Contrast that to the Jewish community in Jesus’ hometown – His own people who should know Him the best – they were the ones with unbelief. And very few miracles occurred in their midst. Unexpected and debilitating unbelief. Jesus marveled at their unbelief.

Familiarity can breed unbelief, but unexpected belief can come from anyone and anywhere.

Questions: Is Jesus marveling at you? For faith or unbelief?