Jesus' disciples could have freed a family from a demon and misery — if the disciples had possessed greater faith. There might be many bad situations in our lives which could have been transformed years ago if we had faith, even the size of a mustard seed (Mt 17:20).
It is obviously wrong to tell others that they are sick or have problems because of their lack of faith. We cannot determine the degree of others' faith. Moreover, some of our sufferings are opportunities to enter into the mystery of Christ's cross (see Phil 3:10). These sufferings should not be removed, but embraced.
Nevertheless, it is true that faith and the lack of it make a great difference. Not all mountains of suffering are movable, but some are (Mt 17:20). Jesus often attributes healing to the faith of the sick person (see Mt 9:22) or of his or her friends (see Mt 9:2). We should be honest enough to cry out to the Lord: "I do believe! Help my lack of trust!" (Mk 9:24)
| PRAYER: | Father, "increase our faith" (Lk 17:5). |
| PROMISE: | "Nothing would be impossible for you." –Mt 17:20 |
| PRAISE: | St. Jane Frances de Chantal founded the order of the Visitation of Holy Mary for women rejected by other orders. |
Reprinted with permission from Presentation Ministries, a lay association of the Catholic Church that focuses on evangelization and discipleship through Bible teaching, daily Mass, the charisms of the Holy Spirit, and Small Christian Community. Their ministries include:
· One Bread, One Body
· Daily Bread Radio Program
· Annual Bible Institute
· Discipleship Retreats
· Guadalupe Bible College