First Friday of Advent – Is 29:17-24; Matthew 9:27-31
Jesus speaks with two blind men who beg for mercy. “Do you believe I can do this?” “Sir, we do.” He touches their eyes and says, “Your faith deserves it; let this be done for you.” A great miracle—a clear sign that God can heal every disorder. Here on earth we are subject to frailty and suffering, yet the future is drawn in bright colours.
But notice this: for the blind men, “their faith deserved it.” It was not only the eyes of the body that began to see; first, the eyes of the heart had to open. They chose to believe. They chose to trust.
The miracles of Jesus are not the beginning of a worldwide campaign to rid the earth of disease and pain—at least not yet. They are signs of who He is—our Saviour—and hints of the heaven that awaits. Heaven is the goal of every Christian, and true Christian love wants heaven for our brothers and sisters.
Still, heaven can feel vague next to our everyday aims. In this, the Apostles had it easier. They saw Him, spoke with Him, and longed for His return. For them, heaven was concrete: to meet Jesus again, face to face. That hope gave them strength to endure trials. Saint John ends the Book of Revelation with the words, “Come, Lord Jesus.” Not a tidy slogan, but the cry of a heart that loves and waits.
I admit I sometimes defend myself against trusting God, as if I know better for myself and others. How unnecessary. The One I am asked to trust is good. Though I may suffer, He will not allow anything to come between me and the salvation He offers, if I cling to Him and walk by faith.
To trust You, Lord, is not easy; You sometimes lead us along frightening precipices. Yet You are with us, and it is worth it.
I long, Lord, for a life without disease, suffering, hunger, and death. Thank You that You have prepared such a life for eternity. Here and now, though, it can feel overwhelming. Open the eyes of my heart. Teach me to trust. Help me to love others towards heaven.
Come, Lord Jesus. Increase our faith.