Philip Raj A csc –
Readings: 2 Kgs 5: 1-15b; Lk 4: 24-30
The readings of the day invite us to have unwavering faith in Jesus Christ. Though we all possess some degree of faith, it may not always be deep enough to sustain us through life’s ups and downs.
In both readings, we encounter two distinct groups: those who believe in God and those who do not. In the first reading, we witness the faith of a servant girl in a foreign land, who, despite her circumstances, trusts in the God of Israel to heal Naaman’s leprosy. Conversely, we observe doubt in the healing power of God among figures like the king of Israel and Naaman himself. Ultimately, it is the prophet Elisha who, as the holy man of God, effects Naaman’s cure. Similarly, in the gospel reading, Jesus laments the rejection of the Good News by the Jews.
Those who have faith in Jesus experience his healing power, while others, like the scribes, Pharisees, and elite members of the Jewish community, are filled with anger and seek to destroy him. Faith is not merely a concept but a personal relationship with God. Like any relationship, it requires nurturing and is tested by life’s trials and triumphs.
As Antoinette Bosco eloquently stated, “Faith must grow and withstand all crises, dangers, and adventures of life.” Let us take a moment to reflect on which category we belong to. Is our faith deep enough to endure the highs and lows of life? As we journey through the season of Lent, let us introspect our faith and strive to deepen our connection with Christ, our Savior and Lord.