Message of Abbot Paul - Friday 3rd December

Message from Fr Paul for Friday, 3rd December 2021

           One of the radical changes to my daily routine as a result of Toby’s fractured leg is the fact that we have lost our wonderful walks and trips out together. Of the many walks we would go on together each day, some long, others short, the only one now that bears any resemblance to pre-fracture days is the early morning one in the dark, going out about six o’clock. He cuts it short, of course, but we do get about ten minutes in the semi-darkness, often being pursued by a fierce robin or singing blackbird. Soon he’ll be moving into alternative accommodation that we’re arranging for his post-op convalescence and rehabilitation. He clearly understands what’s going on and is making the most of all the fuss and attention.

           We continue reading Matthew on our Advent journey, today the healing of two blind men, (Mt 9: 27-31). Here is the account: “As Jesus went on his way two blind men followed him shouting, ‘Take pity on us, Son of David.’ And when Jesus reached the house, the blind men came up with him and he said to them, ‘Do you believe I can do this?’ They said, ‘Sir, we do.’ Then he touched their eyes saying, ‘Your faith deserves it, so let this be done for you.’ And their sight returned. Then Jesus sternly warned them, ‘Take care that no one learns about this.’ But when they had gone, they talked about him all over the countryside.”

Here we find no mention of crowds or even of disciples. Jesus appears to be alone on this particular journey, yet he is being followed by two blind men, calling him by that Messianic title, ‘Son of David.’ Jesus was he who fulfilled the prophecies of the Old Testament. They were asking for pity, for mercy, clearly for healing. Perhaps they had been present when others were healed. They must have had someone showing them the way. It could be that Matthew simply wants to point out that this was a very personal encounter between Jesus and the two men. When Jesus comes to the house, he asks them, “Do you believe I can do this?” In other words, do you believe in me, do you believe that I am the Messiah, he who is to come and restore sight to the blind. Together, they confess, “Yes, sir, we do believe in you.” His answer is clear, “Your faith deserves it,” which could even be translated, “Your faith demands it.” With his touch, he heals them. As often occurs, he warns them to tell no one, but how could they keep such a life-changing experience to themselves? Although Jesus performed countless miracles, he didn’t want to be confused with other miracle workers. He wanted people’s faith in him to go deeper and not simply because he healed or fed them.