BELIEF VS. UNBELIEF
After the wonderful experience of the Transfiguration, Jesus now takes the disciples back to reality. We, too, are in the same predicament. After the wonders of this Easter season, we now go back to reality.
The boy we hear about in the Gospel today (Mark 9:14-29) is in a terrible fit. Violence possesses him and throws him into the fire. At the sight of Jesus, the boy is thrown into epilepsy, a terrible nervous disorder that throws one into convulsions. Jesus’ own disciples cannot pacify the boy. The father of the child is at his wits’ end. He has faith but he tells Jesus to help his unbelief. The situation is a desperate one and desperate measures are called for. With the powerful Word of Jesus, the boy is brought back to himself and, regaining consciousness, goes on his way. The mysterious healing of the boy can only be explained by prayer. Elsewhere, the evangelist adds fasting.
There is power in prayer. When all else fails, prayer is the key that unlocks every mystery. Prayer brings about peace and order. It drives away all doubt and brings our minds to rest. It has the power to break evil bondages and sin. We must allow Jesus to speak His Word into our hearts and bring us healing and deliverance. Notice that Jesus is very specific in His prayer. The Gospel teaches us to be specific in what we ask of the Father.
“I do have faith, help my unbelief.” These words resonate within us as we notice our lack of trust and faith in the Lord at times. Sometimes, our faith is tested and needs to be purified. The Gospel teaches us that we can never take faith for granted; it is a gift of God. It would be good to reflect upon our faith in the Lord. The Gospel is an honest call to us. Do we truly believe in Jesus?
REFLECTION QUESTION: Are there areas in your life that you lack faith in?
Lord, I believe. Help my unbelief. Amen.
