Rebuked for Your Faith?

Gospel Reflection for November 20, 2023

“Now as he approached Jericho a blind man was sitting by the roadside begging, and hearing a crowd going by, he inquired what was happening. They told him, ‘Jesus of Nazareth is passing by.’ He shouted, ‘Jesus, Son of David, have pity on me!’ The people walking in front rebuked him, telling him to be silent, but he kept calling out all the more, ‘Son of David, have pity on me!’ Then Jesus stopped and ordered that he be brought to him; and when he came near, Jesus asked him, ‘What do you want me to do for you?’ He replied, ‘Lord, please let me see.’ Jesus told him, ‘Have sight; your faith has saved you.’ He immediately received his sight and followed him, giving glory to God. When they saw this, all the people gave praise to God.” (Luke 18:35-43 NABRE)

We’ve all experienced moments in our life when we were rebuked for our faith in Jesus, and for our desire to be close to Him. Whether someone really close to us made us feel this way, or simply the world in general, we’ve all experienced the feeling of being judged or chided for our faith.

Whenever this happens to us, we must follow the example of the blind man in today’s Gospel who would not allow himself to be held back from the Lord. When others attempted to stifle him, he called out all the more to Jesus.

And you know what? Jesus heard him, saw him, called the man to Himself, healed him, and affirmed the man’s faith. How wonderful! Jesus hears and sees your great and beautiful faith too.

So, never let anyone hinder you from pursuing the Lord! Do not let their rebukes bother you or hold you back. Even when you feel alone in following Jesus, know that with the Lord, you are never alone! He’ll strengthen you, protect you, and shower down His love on you. Glory be to God!