Monday of the 4th week in the ordinary time of the year A
Theme: Lord increase our faith
In the 1st reading of today, the letter to the Hebrews presents to us the power of faith in our call to discipleship. We were presented with the names of some of our ancestors in faith, who surmounted their challenges in life and in their mission because of their faith in God. The difficulties and storms of life strengthened their faith in God and they remained resolute without minding the cost. In their different situations they remained steadfast and God did not desert them, but rather stood with them all through their difficult moments. In the same way, we are all encouraged today to be resolute in our faith, especially when we are faced with the challenges and difficulties of life. It is at such moments that our faith in God is greatly put to the test, and we must stand strong and trust in God to the end. Our ability to remain strong in faith in times of difficulty, says a lot about our faith in God; and God appreciates it in his own way whenever it happens. It is important that we continue to pray for increase in faith in our daily lives, because it is a necessity in our lives as children of God. It gives us the strength and courage to face any storm that we encounter in our lives, knowing that we are not alone in it, God is with us.
In the gospel reading of today, after healing the demoniac, he told him to go back to his people and bear testimony about the mercy and goodness of God in his life. What a wonderful way to continue the propagation of the good news of the kingdom of God. He was sent back to his people who knew him before the encounter with Jesus that changed the narrative of his life. In the same way my brothers and sisters in Christ, we are all encouraged today as followers of Christ to go and propagate the good news of the kingdom of God with faith and courage. This is possible because at one time or the other in our life, we may have experienced the love and mercy of God and our faith was strengthened. Experiences in life continue to help in the building of our faith and trust in God. With faith in God, we can impact greatly around our circle of influence.
May the Lord increase our faith in the name of the father and of the son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. Peace be with you.