Homily First Friday of Advent (Lk. 9:27-31) “Believing Can Lead to Seeing”
Homily First Friday of Advent (Lk. 9:27-31) “Believing Can Lead to Seeing”
We continue to read about the miracles of Jesus in the scriptures today. Two blind men approach him asking for healing. He does not heal them in front of the crowd. He waits until he has them alone.
He seems to want to talk with them about what their healing could mean. We probably have all met people whose life is totally taken up with an illnesses. Illness can sometimes be an excuse for not accomplishing things in our life. Once an illness is cured, those that are cured are supposed to dive back into the hectic pace of life. Sometimes it is overwhelming. Jesus wanted to make sure that the two blind men really understood how their lives would change with good health.
He also asked them another interesting question, “Do you believe that I can do this for you?” Attitude is an important part of any healing that takes place in life. If a sick person does not have confidence in their doctor there is not a lot of healing that can happen.
We all have probably been around doctors that we do not like. Maybe our personalities just don’t mesh. Perhaps we feel like the doctor is not being totally honest with us. We might search for a new physician. If the illness is life threatening than how much we trust our doctor becomes even more important.
Jesus wanted to make sure of the blind men’s faith in him. When he detected that the two of them were sincere then he could cure them.
We have a lot of blindness in our world right now. Much of it has to do with distrust. Soon there will be a vaccine available for the COVID 19 virus, but some people say they will not take the inoculations. Having a cure for this scourge will depend on whether we trust in the science or not. We pray that the information we receive will be truthful and that a cure will come.
Reflection Questions:
- Have I ever doubted my doctor? How did that complicate my illness?
- Does having faith in God help me heal faster when I am sick? Does prayer keep me physically health?
Dear Parishioners,
I would remind you once again that if you want a new missalette or an Advent devotional you may pick those up in church or in the plastic tub that is sitting outside the front door of the Lee Center. These materials are free.
Some people have asked me how many persons can be at a funeral Mass. Since a funeral Mass is a religious event, we can have up to 125 people.
We follow all protocols at a funeral. I would think this would keep people safe from infection. A funeral Mass is an important grace for the deceased and for all their loved ones. It is a wonderful blessing.
May Our Lady and all the Angels and Saints watch over you today.
Fr. Mark