Daily Readings - Mon Nov 17 2025
Luke
35As Jesus approached Jericho, a blind man was sitting by the roadside begging.36When he heard the crowd going by, he asked what was happening.37They told him, "Jesus of Nazareth is passing by."38He called out, "Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!"39Those who led the way rebuked him and told him to be quiet, but he shouted all the more, "Son of David, have mercy on me!"40Jesus stopped and ordered the man to be brought to him. When he came near, Jesus asked him,41"What do you want me to do for you?Lord, I want to see," he replied.42Jesus said to him, "Receive your sight; your faith has healed you."43Immediately he received his sight and followed Jesus, praising God. When all the people saw it, they also praised God.
Sermon
The first reading from 1 Maccabees paints a vivid picture of a time of great trial for the Jewish people. It describes how the Temple in Jerusalem was desecrated by King Antiochus IV, who erected a statue of Zeus in the holy place, an act of profound sacrilege. This event, known as the "abomination of desolation," was a direct attack on the Jewish faith and way of life. Many Jews were forced to abandon their traditions, and those who remained faithful suffered greatly. This reading reminds us of the enduring struggle between faith and oppression, and how even in the darkest moments, God remains with His people.
The Gospel reading from Luke tells the story of a blind man who cries out to Jesus for healing as He passes through Jericho. Despite being rebuked by the crowd, the man persists in his plea, and Jesus, moved by his faith, restores his sight. This miracle is not just a physical healing but a spiritual one as well. The blind man’s unwavering faith and refusal to be silenced serve as a powerful example of trust in God’s providence. Just as the blind man’s persistence led to his healing, our own perseverance in prayer and faith can lead to spiritual renewal and deeper union with God.
Both readings invite us to reflect on the nature of faith and perseverance. In the face of oppression and suffering, the Jewish people in 1 Maccabees clung to their faith, even when it meant facing severe consequences. Similarly, the blind man in the Gospel refused to be deterred by those who dismissed his plea. These stories challenge us to remain steadfast in our own faith, even when we encounter obstacles or setbacks. Let us ask ourselves: Do we trust in God’s plan for us, even when the path is unclear? Do we have the courage to stand firm in our beliefs, even when the world around us seems hostile? May we draw strength from these examples, knowing that God is always near, ready to heal and restore us.