First Reading: 1 Mac 1:10-15.41-43.54-57.62-64; Psalm: 119. R. v. 88; Gospel: Lk 18:35-43

FAITH AMIDST DOUBT

BY FR VALENTINE NNAMDI EGBUONU, MSP

“And he cried, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” And those who were in front rebuked him, telling him to be silent; but he cried out all the more, “Son of David, have mercy on me!”” (Lk 18:38-39)

We may have found ourselves in the same situation as this blind man. A situation that is not just helpless and distressing but surrounded by voices and circumstances that cramp us down. Some people easily give up at this point because added to their misfortune, the circumstances surrounding them discourages them to cry out. But the faith of this blind man in the gospel of today should challenge us.

Although he was blind but he encountered Jesus. His blindness could not stop him. The crowd could not shut him out. Even their rebuke could not discourage him. And eventually, his faith did not fail him. Although he had not one thing that the rest of the crowd had; but he had many things that a majority in the crowd didn’t have. He had faith, determination, courage, resilience, hope and belief. He refused his condition and the discouraging crowd to dampen his faith. And his faith made him well.

We may be going through some difficult moments in life that has kept us depressed and discouraged. But we have to refuse to be defeated by whatever challenges that is pulling us down; believing that God is with us. This kind of faith and determination appeals to God. That moment we begin to feel that nothing more can be done again could be the moment that a little effort from us can change our whole story. We should never stop trying and believing as long as we have that God-given air to breathe. Our challenges should strengthen us and not break us down. In difficult moments, a faith as tiny as a mustard seed could do wonders. God needs to see this.

PRAYER FOR THE DAY

Lord Jesus, may our faith in you never fail even amidst doubt and discouragement. Amen.