The first reading (Isaiah 2:1-5) contains an oracle, a prophetic utterance that puts forth a vision of the future of Zion. The Jews considered Mt. Zion as a sacred mountain. They also viewed it as an important place and not just for the Israelites but for the whole world. In his vision, the prophet Isaiah puts forth the idea that Israel is a light to the nations. In this ideal world, all nations will come together to the city of Jerusalem. To recognise Jerusalem as the centre of the earth is to also recognise God as the king of the nation. This recognition and acceptance of God's reign of Zion as its king is seen as the key to world peace, when swords will be beaten into ploughshares. Lord, help us to live in a manner more worthy of our Christian calling as St Francis Xavier did!

In the Gospel, special attention is given to a non-Jew's act of faith and in Jesus' power. The centurion was a Gentile soldier who was stationed at a garrison of Capernaum. The centurion's faith is praised by Jesus as surpassing anything that Jesus has encountered among God's chosen people. Jesus contrasts the faith of the centurion with its lack in Israel. It is seen as anticipating the situation after Jesus' death and resurrection when the Gentiles will find a place among God's people at the heavenly banquet. The readings today remind us that it is not enough for us to claim that we are "sons and daughters of God". To be true children of God, we must believe in Jesus and live as his disciples.