The dealer explained to us he had to get approval for any chip exchange of $75 or more.
"So in other words," we noted, "you're one under authority."
The phrase stumped him for a moment, so we explained. "You're under his authority. I read that in a book once." Moments later, we explained that book was the Bible....
The centurion replied, "Lord, I do not deserve to have you come under my roof. But just say the word, and my servant will be healed. For I myself am a man under authority, with soldiers under me. I tell this one, 'Go,' and he goes; and that one, 'Come,' and he comes. I say to my servant, 'Do this,' and he does it." - Matthew 8:8-9
The phrase about being "under authority" actually was spoken to Jesus Christ, instead of by him. Historical legend claims a Roman centurion was an officer over 100 soldiers (although the actual number may have been lower).
This man came to Jesus to have a servant healed of paralysis (verses 5-6). And he was convinced the mere statement of healing by the Lord would do the job.
When Jesus heard this, he was astonished and said to those following him, "I tell you the truth, I have not found anyone in Israel with such great faith." - Mathew 8:10
Faith in Christ paid off for that centurion and his servant, as the servant "was healed at that very hour" (verse 13). So we would ask two questions from this:
1. Are you under authority in your life?
2. If so, to whom?
Professional poker players may seem like free spirits. But have you noticed how many of them wear sponsorship logos at the table? Those endorsement deals provide a steady income, we suppose -- but players probably are obligated to do what the endorsers desire. When they do, they're under the authority of those sponsors.
Even if you don't have a sponsor, you're "under authority" at a poker table. A Tournament Director or dealer enforces the rules and settles disputes about hands -- whether you like the outcome or not.
In the classic words of a Bob Dylan song, we all "have to serve somebody." Believe it or not, even Jesus Christ did while walking on Earth:
Going a little farther, he fell with his face to the ground and prayed, "My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will." - Matthew 26:39
Jesus offered this prayer at least twice, in the hours before He was crucified (verse 42) - and perhaps stunningly, God the Father told His perfect holy Son no. It was God's will that Jesus suffer and die. Jesus accepted that authority from His Father -- and was rewarded with a resurrection to the Father's right hand in heaven.
So what about you? Are you under God's authority? It's really for your good, because you can enjoy a future resurrection to eternal life as Jesus did. Accept it by putting your faith in God and what Jesus has done on your behalf. It will be change worth far more than $100 in chips.
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