Reflection
Today’s readings remind us that our faith in the Lord has real power to overcome whatever ailments or deficiencies we may have.
In the Old Testament, the prophet Isaiah promised that “out of gloom and darkness, the eyes of the blind shall see” (Isaiah 29:18). The Gospel today is seen as fulfillment of that ancient prophecy. When the blind regain their sight, it would be a sign that the age of salvation had arrived. Physical blindness was terrible. It often led to a lifetime of poverty and daily begging for food just to survive. Isaiah promised that, in the age of salvation, the blind would see, the deaf would hear, the lame would walk, and prisoners would be set free.
Isaiah’s prophecy also applies to our spiritual ailments, namely our sins. Our sins cause a spiritual blindness that in time will lead us into spiritual gloom, which is hopelessness. It is in our hopelessness that Satan has power over us, leading us further into the darkness.
The blind men call out to Jesus with an important title, “Son of David.” This is an acknowledgment that Jesus is the hidden King of Israel. What the men ask for, in faith, is mercy. They recognize that the kingship of Jesus is not about earthly wealth or power. It is about healing, forgiveness, and merciful love. When Jesus cured the two blind men in Capernaum, he warned them sternly not to tell anyone. Why is it that Jesus didn’t want publicity about his healing power? Why is it that the men, mercifully healed by Jesus, disobeyed his command? On the one hand, Jesus was cautious about people misrepresenting his identity and mission.
The blind men called out to Jesus with the title, “Son of David.” They could be thinking that Jesus will be a political Messiah, one who will lead armies to overthrow the Romans and establish the earthly Kingdom of David. On the other hand, Jesus wants to encounter people not merely as a miracle-worker, but as a savior and redeemer. In the end, the two men spread the word about Jesus throughout the land. This notoriety, we are told in other Gospels, leads to Jesus retreating and withdrawing. Jesus doesn’t want the people to have false notions about his person.
Ultimately, Jesus was obedient to His mission to bring salvation to the world. When confronted, Jesus never denies being the Messiah, knowing that after His resurrection, and with the help of the Holy Spirit, his disciples will continue the mission to spread the Good News of salvation through faith in Jesus.
Let us also turn to Jesus in faith and ask Him to cure us of our spiritual blindness. Then, like the two men today, let us go forth with great joy to tell others the Good News so they can overcome the power of Satan in their lives.
Today’s Question for Prayer and Reflection
How can I see more clearly with the eyes of faith?
Source for today’s reflection: https://epriest.com/reflections/view/3269