Daily Gospel Reflection for December 7, 2018

Today's Gospel: Matthew 9:27-31 Today's Gospels is one of those that I could just sit with all day. For one thing, I'm so often one of those blind guys. I just jump into whatever mess is closest, and next thing I know, I need some divine intervention. "Do you trust me?" Jesus asks when I wail out for him. "Yeah, sure," I reply, totally thrown off by the fact that I'm BLIND now and wondering how I couldn't see this coming. Except...I'm BLIND. Can't see a THING. Despite my smart-alecky-ness, Jesus reaches out. And there's the next thing that gets me: Jesus doesn't just say, "OK, fine." He reaches out. He touches me. And however much I'm NOT a hugger, I need that touch. I need to feel his humanity. I need to know that he's real, he's tangible, he's not a figment of my imagination. I'm just as human as anyone else he's made, and I can't just rely on the theory of God. I need his touch. Ever the gentleman, and even though I'm consistently a jerk, he complies. The third thing in this Gospel that gets me is the final admonition from Jesus: "See that no one knows about this." He says it sternly, according to the translation I'm reading. So the Savior who healed two blind men with a touch suddenly wants to keep it under wraps? 'Scuse me? Wha? Huh? Without diving into a commentary or going all research-crazy, here's what strikes me: Jesus just wanted to help. He doesn't want to open shop or start a chain business. Yeah, he wants to save humanity. He doesn't want this to turn into fame and fortune for these two guys. Let's just move along. Share your blessings. Don't trumpet about it. Is Jesus pointing me toward continued humility? Sure feels like it.

Ponder:

Where do you need Jesus' loving touch?

Pray:

Jesus, I know I need you. But, maaaaan, it sure is hard to ask for your help. Please meet me right where I am with your loving touch. Give me a big hug and help me continue on the path of humility as I strive to follow your will. Amen.