In the Gospel of today Jesus asked the two blind men a
direct and touchy question: “Do you believe that I am able to do this?” This
question was directed not to two causal blind beggars by the roadside, but two
blind men that made stringent efforts to get to him for healing. They followed Him
along the way, crying aloud, “Have mercy on us, Son of David.” Even when Jesus
entered the house, the men still made there way to get to Him. If they did not
believe, why would they go through such stress to get to Jesus?
Another meditative question is: why did Jesus suspend His
response to them but delayed and “dragged” them along? Their desire to be
healed, if it were coming from Faith, must include the freedom of Jesus to
answer them at His own pace and according to His will! Though they were crying
aloud, their faith silently followed Jesus and ‘dragged’ the men along, despite
the inconveniences. Having arrived at the feet of Jesus, their faith had been
purified of selfishness such that even their desire to be healed was recognized
as freely in the arms of Jesus. In other words, imagine the faith of a blind
who believes that Jesus has the power to heal him though he still remains blind
before him! He continues to believe even when that healing is delayed or denied…
Thus, when Jesus asked the above question, the men quickly answered,
“Yes, Lord.” Then Jesus touched their eyes, saying, “According to your faith let it
be done for you.” What a divine touch on those who had touched Jesus in faith! A
lively faith, fused with divine favor that becomes answered prayer to those who
posses it. As we approach Jesus with a renewed faith this Advent, may we feel
His healing touch on us. Amen.
Fr Jude Chinwenwa Nwachukwu, C.Ss.R
Saints Peter & Paul Catholic Church,
Tedi-Muwo, Lagos.
Friday December 3rd, 2021.
