Homily by Fr. Stefan Sapun on the Thirty-sixth Sunday after Pentecost
January 25, 2025
The story of the blind man in Jericho is a mirror held up to our souls. It challenges us to examine our faith, our prayers, and our willingness to follow Christ. May the Lord, who opened the eyes of the blind man, illumine the eyes of our hearts, that we may behold His glory and walk in His light all the days of our lives.
Beloved Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
Today, the Holy Gospel invites us to Jericho, where a blind man sat by the roadside, yearning for something more profound than just the alms of passing strangers. His cry, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me,” is not merely a plea for physical healing but an expression of deep spiritual hunger and faith. Let us reflect on this passage through the teachings of the Holy Fathers of the Church, seeking to uncover its timeless wisdom for our lives.
A Cry Born of Faith
The blind man’s cry was one of desperation, but also of profound faith. The Holy Fathers teach us that this man recognized Jesus not just as a great teacher or healer but as the promised Messiah—the “Son of David.” St. Cyril of Alexandria writes, “He saw with the eyes of his heart what his physical eyes could not behold.” His persistence, even when rebuked by the crowd, demonstrates the unwavering faith that pierces through obstacles and reaches the heart of God.
How often do we allow the voices of the crowd to silence our prayers? The crowd represents not only external distractions but also our internal doubts and fears. Like the blind man, we must persevere, crying out to Christ with humility and faith, trusting that He hears us.
The Compassion of Christ
Jesus’ response is striking. Amid the bustling noise of the multitude, He stops. This moment reveals the infinite compassion of our Lord. St. John Chrysostom reminds us, “Christ does not pass by the cries of those who call upon Him in faith. His love is attentive to every soul.”
Jesus’ question, “What do you want me to do for you?” invites the blind man to articulate his need. This interaction reflects the relationship God desires with each of us. He knows our needs, yet He calls us to present them to Him in prayer, fostering a dialogue of trust and dependence.
Faith That Heals
When the man asks to receive his sight, Jesus grants it with the words, “Your faith has made you well.” The healing is not only physical but also spiritual. St. Gregory the Great teaches, “True faith heals the inner blindness of the heart, enabling us to see the light of Christ.” The man’s immediate response—glorifying God and following Jesus—is the mark of genuine discipleship.
This Gospel reminds us that faith is not passive. It requires an active response: a willingness to follow Christ, to leave behind our spiritual blindness, and to live a life of gratitude and praise.
Lessons for Our Journey
- Recognize Our Need: Like the blind man, we must acknowledge our spiritual poverty and cry out to the Lord. St. Augustine writes, “The first step in healing is to know that you are sick.” Let us not hesitate to bring our weaknesses and struggles before Christ.
- Persevere in Prayer: The blind man’s persistence teaches us the importance of steadfast prayer. When we feel unheard or discouraged, let us remember that Christ’s timing is perfect, and His compassion is unending.
- Follow Christ in Gratitude: The healed man glorified God and followed Jesus. True faith always leads to worship and a life transformed by the grace of God.
Conclusion
Beloved in Christ, the story of the blind man in Jericho is a mirror held up to our souls. It challenges us to examine our faith, our prayers, and our willingness to follow Christ. Let us cry out with the same fervor, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me,” trusting in His boundless mercy and love.
May the Lord, who opened the eyes of the blind man, illumine the eyes of our hearts, that we may behold His glory and walk in His light all the days of our lives. Amen.