Tuesday, December 3, 2024

A Silent Prayer and a Childlike Faith

Daily Gospel: Luke 10:21-24

Jesus rejoiced in the Holy Spirit and said, "I give you praise, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, for although you have hidden these things from the wise and the learned you have revealed them to the childlike. Yes, Father, such has been your gracious will. All things have been handed over to me by my Father. No one knows who the Son is except the Father, and who the Father is except the Son and anyone to whom the Son wishes to reveal him."

Turning to the disciples in private he said, "Blessed are the eyes that see what you see. For I say to you, many prophets and kings desired to see what you see, but did not see it, and to hear what you hear, but did not hear it."


Reflection: A Silent Prayer and a Childlike Faith

Earlier today, a touching scene unfolded before my eyes. An elderly woman, tears streaming down her face, sat a few rows behind me on the bus. She tapped her bus pass, her fingers trembling slightly. I hesitated, unsure if I should offer comfort or if it would be an intrusion. In the end, I chose silence.

Instead, I offered a silent prayer, asking God to ease her pain and provide the solace she needed. This brief encounter, though silent, resonated deeply with the Gospel reading for the day.

Jesus' words in Luke 10:21-24 struck within my soul. He praises His Father for revealing divine truths to the "little ones," those who are humble and open to God's grace. It’s a powerful reminder that true wisdom doesn’t stem from intellectual pursuits or worldly achievements. It comes from a humble heart, open to God's grace and mercy.

I often find myself caught in the trap of seeking answers and knowledge, relying on my own understanding to navigate life's challenges. However, in doing so, I neglect the most important thing: listening to God's voice and trusting in His divine plan.

Jesus encourages us to embrace a childlike faith, a faith that is pure, innocent, and totally reliant on God. It's a faith that doesn't question, but simply trusts. A faith that doesn't seek to understand, but accepts God's will without reservation.

As I reflect on this experience, I am reminded of the power of prayer and the importance of a childlike faith. The elderly woman on the bus, and countless others like her, are seeking God's love and guidance. Let us pray for them, and for ourselves, that we may always turn to God in times of trouble and trust in His loving care.