Son of David, have pity on us.
We hear this phrase frequently in the Gospels. Today, we hear these words out of the mouths of blind men in the Gospel of Matthew.
Although they could not have seen the miracles He had previously worked, these followers of Jesus knew of His reputation and had faith in His ability to heal them. They address Jesus using the Messianic title “Son of David,” a name not only connected with His royal lineage but one that also reflects His healing power.
Too often, we try to take matters in our own hands, believing that our plans are greater than God’s. In those circumstances, we think we are displaying great faith in ourselves, in our abilities, but what we are really showing is a complete lack of faith in the Lord. Think about what courage and faith the blind men must have had to even ask, “Son of David, have pity on us!”
Let’s take a look at the definition of pity. A “feeling of sorrow and compassion caused by the suffering and misfortune of others.” Remember, Jesus is fully human and He is moved out of those same human emotions of sorrow and compassion to help these men of faith.
As we journey through this season of Advent, let us embrace the spirit of the blind men. Let us have a bold faith. When the Lord asks us, “Do you believe that I can do this?” let us be bold enough to answer with a RESOUNDING “yes.” But let us also be humble enough to acknowledge our spiritual blindness in the first place. Humility and boldness go hand in hand here, working together in faith.
What are the areas of our lives that cause us spiritual blindness? Advent presents a great opportunity to reflect on our shortcomings and take them to Jesus in the Sacrament of Reconciliation. There is truly no better way to prepare ourselves for His birth than to rid our hearts of sin and darkness, giving Him pride of place instead.
For these next few days, let us take the opportunity to answer, “Yes, Lord. We believe.” You might be amazed at what He works in your life, what He does for your faith.
Erin is a Parma Heights, Ohio, native and a 2016 graduate of Franciscan University of Steubenville. She uses her communication arts degree in a couple of different ways: first, as an Athletic Communications Assistant at Baldwin Wallace University and, secondly, as a youth minister at her home parish of Holy Family Church. Although both of her jobs are on complete opposite spectrums, she truly enjoys being able to span the realm of communications. You can follow her on multiple Twitter accounts – @erinmadden2016 (personal), @bwathletics (work) and @HFVision (youth ministry).
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