Faced with all the miracles Jesus performed, the crowds were filled with admiration for Him. Of course! But on a few occasions, Jesus also felt admiration for certain people. Does your faith impress Jesus?

Jesus’ reaction to the Roman centurion in Luke 7 is significant. First, He was touched by the centurion’s love for the Jews. “And when they came to Jesus, they begged Him earnestly, saying that the one for whom He should do this was deserving, ‘for he loves our nation, and has built us a synagogue ‘” (v. 4-5). Jesus then agreed to go to his house to meet his need. But on the way, the centurion stopped him. He said he was unworthy to receive Jesus in his home, but believed that a single word from Jesus could heal his servant. And Jesus’ reaction is invaluable: “When Jesus heard these things, He marveled at him, and turned around and said to the crowd that followed Him, “I say to you, I have not found such great faith, not even in Israel!”” (v. 9).

Jesus was amazed at the centurion. Other versions say that He was impressed, astonished. What touched Jesus’ heart? Certainly, his faith, but also his humility and submission to God’s omnipotence. Other people have also impressed our Lord. The Canaanite woman in Matthew 15:21-28, who insisted on receiving her miracle despite Jesus’ initial refusal. “And she said, “Yes, Lord, yet even the little dogs eat the crumbs which fall from their masters’ table.” Then Jesus answered and said to her, “O woman, great is your faith! Let it be to you as you desire.” And her daughter was healed from that very hour (v. 27-28 NKJV). Jesus also noticed the devotion of the poor widow who gave two small coins. “So He said, “Truly I say to you that this poor widow has put in more than all; for all these out of their abundance have put in offerings for God, but she out of her poverty put in all the livelihood that she had” (Luke 21:3-4 NKJV). Sadly, Jesus was also struck by the lack of faith of another group. “Now He could do no mighty work there, except that He laid His hands on a few sick people and healed them. And He marveled because of their unbelief. Then He went about the villages in a circuit, teaching” (Mark 6:5-6 NKJV).

What can impress Jesus? Our faith: when we rely on His Word to move forward in His plan. Our humility: when we recognize our need for His strength and wisdom to do His will. Our sacrifices: when we consider eternal life more important than our life here on Earth. And when we avoid offending the Holy Spirit by not believing in His love and omnipotence.

Single people, does the way you conduct yourself in your singleness impress Jesus? In a positive way, hopefully! Do you keep faith in His promises? Do you remain in love with God even if you haven’t yet found your life partner? Do your behavior, actions, and decisions demonstrate the depth of your faith? Do your colleagues and family know you are a Christian simply by observing your actions? We all make mistakes, but our repentance and humility attract God’s attention. Let’s keep this in mind and continue pleasing Him every day and in everything we do.