REFLECTIONS TODAY

This “long-distance” miracle of Jesus is brought about by the power of his words that are in the form of a command: “You may go; your son will live” (v 50). Jesus expects obedience and trust from those to whom they are addressed.
At the beginning, Jesus tells the royal official challenging words: “Unless you people see signs and wonders, you will not believe” (v 48). Did not the official believe unless he saw his son freed from the danger of death? His faith exceeds what was expected, for with Jesus’ words, “Your son will live” (v 50), he goes off and believes. Faith is needed by the royal official so that he could go without anxiety. He hears and, even before seeing, believes. He had faith from the beginning—he came to Jesus because he believed. He listens and goes home because he believes; he realizes the fulfillment of the words, and he and his family believe. Faith comes not in individual moments; it comes as an attitude, a habit (thus, a virtue!) and a gift.
Do I go to the Lord in my need? Have I experienced receiving graces from him even when I have doubted?
Responsorial Psalm • Psalm 30
“I will praise you, Lord, for you have rescued me.”
Source: “366 Days with the Lord 2024,” St. Paul’s, 7708 St. Paul Rd., SAV, Makati City (Phils.); Tel.: 632-895-9701; E-mail: [email protected].