First Reading - Apocalypse 1:1-4,2:1-5
Gospel - Luke 18:35-43
The first reading, from the Book of Revelation, reminds us that faith, no matter how strong it may have been, can wane if not nurtured. John’s vision is addressed to the seven churches of Asia Minor, particularly the church in Ephesus. The believers in Ephesus are commended for their endurance and dedication, but John points out a decline in their initial fervor and love for Christ. His call to "rekindle your first love" is a powerful reminder for all of us: faith is not static. It requires continual renewal, reflection, and effort to keep it alive and vibrant.
In the Gospel, we meet Bartimaeus, a blind man sitting by the roadside, begging. Despite his blindness and social position, Bartimaeus exhibits remarkable faith. Amidst a noisy crowd, he cries out, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” His cry is not just a request for help—it is a profound act of faith. He recognizes Jesus as the Messiah, the source of mercy and healing. Even when others attempt to silence him, Bartimaeus perseveres, and his unwavering faith captures Jesus’ attention. Jesus not only heals him but acknowledges the very root of his healing: “Your faith has made you well.”
Dear friends, the story of Bartimaeus teaches us that faith is not merely about seeing but believing. Many in the crowd followed Jesus, yet it was the blind man who truly recognized Him. Faith is what gives us the strength to cry out to God in our moments of need, even when barriers arise—be it doubt, fear, or the discouragement of others. The cry of faith, as we see with Bartimaeus, never goes unheard or unanswered.
The first reading warns us of the danger of complacency. Just as the believers in Ephesus were called to reignite their love for Christ, so too are we reminded to guard and nurture our faith. Faith that is neglected fades over time, leaving us vulnerable to life’s challenges. On the other hand, a faith that is fed with prayer, reflection, and trust becomes a powerful force, capable of moving mountains and leading us closer to God.
Today, we are invited to make every prayer a heartfelt cry of faith, like Bartimaeus. When life’s difficulties try to silence our trust in God, let us persist in calling out to Him. True faith is not about a perfect life free of struggles but about holding on to God, believing that He hears us and will answer us in His time and way.
Let us pray for the grace to deepen our faith and for the courage to live it boldly, even in the face of obstacles. May the cry of our faith, like that of Bartimaeus, reach the ears of Jesus and bring us the healing and strength we need.
May God increase and sustain our faith, making it a light that guides us through life’s journey.
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