Daily Readings - Fri Dec 07 2018
Isaiah
17Is it not yet a very little while until Lebanon shall be turned into a fruitful field, and the fruitful field shall be regarded as a forest?18In that day the deaf shall hear the words of a book, and out of their gloom and darkness the eyes of the blind shall see.19The meek shall obtain fresh joy in the LORD, and the poor among mankind shall exult in the Holy One of Israel.20For the ruthless shall come to nothing and the scoffer cease, and all who watch to do evil shall be cut off,21who by a word make a man out to be an offender, and lay a snare for him who reproves in the gate, and with an empty plea turn aside him who is in the right.22Therefore thus says the LORD, who redeemed Abraham, concerning the house of Jacob: "Jacob shall no more be ashamed, no more shall his face grow pale.23For when he sees his children, the work of my hands, in his midst, they will sanctify my name; they will sanctify the Holy One of Jacob and will stand in awe of the God of Israel.24And those who go astray in spirit will come to understanding, and those who murmur will accept instruction."
Matthew
27And as Jesus passed on from there, two blind men followed him, crying aloud, "Have mercy on us, Son of David."28When he entered the house, the blind men came to him, and Jesus said to them, "Do you believe that I am able to do this?" They said to him, "Yes, Lord."29Then he touched their eyes, saying, "According to your faith be it done to you."30And their eyes were opened. And Jesus sternly warned them, "See that no one knows about it."31But they went away and spread his fame through all that district.
Sermon
In today’s readings, we encounter powerful messages of hope, healing, and the transformative power of faith. The first reading from Isaiah paints a vivid picture of a future time when God will restore His people, bringing light to those in darkness and hope to the afflicted. Lebanon, once a symbol of fertility, will flourish again, and the deaf and blind will experience the miracle of healing. This prophecy speaks of a time when God’s justice will prevail, and His people will rejoice in His holiness. It is a message of redemption and renewal, reminding us that even in times of despair, God’s plan for restoration is at work.
The Gospel reading from Matthew brings this prophecy to life in the person of Jesus Christ. As Jesus walks through the streets, two blind men cry out to Him, acknowledging Him as the “Son of David,” a title rich with messianic significance. Jesus, moved by their faith, heals them, restoring their sight. Yet, He instructs them to keep this miracle quiet, a request they cannot help but disregard, so overwhelmed are they by the gift they have received. This passage reminds us that faith is not just about believing in God’s power but also about trusting in His goodness and being open to the ways He wants to work in our lives.
These readings invite us to reflect on our own relationship with God. Like the blind men, we are called to approach Him with faith and trust, even when we cannot see the full picture of His plan. Isaiah’s vision of restoration encourages us to hold onto hope, knowing that God is always working to bring light into our darkness. As we go about our daily lives, may we remain open to the ways God wants to heal and transform us. And like the blind men, may we not keep silent about the ways He has touched our lives, sharing the Good News with others and giving glory to His name.