By Friny Peter Ruwnglal, CSC _
Readings: Jas 1: 19-27; Mk 8: 22-26
We live in the world where people practice different religions. Everyone thinks one’s own as the best and the most relevant one. In fact most people find meaning in practicing their religious practices and rituals in one way or the other.
Today, the first reading taken from the letter of St. James reminds me of how it is important to hear the word of God and practice it. Personally, it is not enough to listen to the word of God and be inspired for few hours or days or months but rather make it a daily pattern of life. I am urged that it is not enough to pretend to be a person who know the word of God and live the opposite in life.
As a religious I ought to be sensitive and cautious in expressing my anger towards the ordinary people I serve in my ministry place. Today, I am called to recognize my human vulnerabilities and failures in practicing the word of God. I am also challenged to listen and live the word of God and be transformed, so as to transform the lives of people around me.
Today the Gospel reading speaks of Jesus Christ healing a blind man. The word ‘blind’ sounds very scary to us because the consequences are unthinkable to endure in life. I asked myself “Can one blind person lead another?” “No” it is not possible to do so. I believe none can comprehend living with blindness easily and willingly.
Therefore, for me being blind can be attributed to all that I fail to do and recognize God in fellow human beings, nature, and situations in my life. Today, I am invited to become a little more open to the realities that are leading me to blindness that could be in words, deeds, attitudes and lifestyle. Let us take a moment to realize the blind side of our lives and surrender unto to the Lord to heal us and make us new in life and spirit.