Paul was upset over what was happening at the Lord's Supper in the Corinthian community. It was not a matter of correct liturgical style or proper prayers, but the attitude and behavior of the community. The Supper was supposed to be a sign to the world of equality, love, and unity. Instead, rich participants ignored and humiliated the poor by not sharing what they had. There was quarrelling, jealousy, and factionalism. It sounds like some parishes! Paul was clear: when you behave like this, the Lord's Supper is a sham and a sign of nothing but your own sin. Attend the community worship with openness, kindness, generosity, and a sense of unity with all. That really is a sign for the world!

Sometimes outsiders show greater faith and insight than the community of believers. The centurion was a Roman - a hated member of the oppressing army. Yet he showed great faith in the power and compassion of Jesus. He was a good man, for he had befriended the synagogue and the local Jewish community. He saw clearly that Jesus - just like himself - only needed to issue the order for his servant to be healed. Jesus was amazed at the depth of his faith, and granted his request. It is far too easy for believers to be smug and arrogant, disrespecting people of other traditions or those who have none. We should not only befriend them, but listen - they just might have something important to teach us, if we are humble enough to learn.