By Vamshi Eedara csc.
Readings: 1Mac 1: 10-15, 41-43, 54-57, 62-64; Lk 18: 35-43
Today’s readings encourage us to have strong faith in God. In the first reading, we witness the struggles and triumphs of the Jewish people. Their faith is tested, and they faced many persecutions and challenges. Yet, amidst these trials, their resilience and unwavering faith in God helped them overcome their struggles.
They teach us that faith can be a guiding light which helps us to go through even the darkest moments of our times. The gospel story of the blind man who called out to Jesus for mercy is a powerful reminder of the importance of faith and persistence in our lives. Despite the crowd’s attempts to silence him, the blind man’s unwavering faith and persistence moved Jesus to heal him and give him sight.
This story is a testament to the power of prayer and faith in overcoming obstacles. Faith can indeed move mountains and God’s mercy is boundless. The letter to Hebrews states that “faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen” (11:1). It is a reminder that faith can help us believe in the unseen and hope for the best. May we all keep our faith and trust in providence, so that our lives may be transformed each day like the blind man in the gospel.