The disciples approached Jesus in private and said,
“Why could we not drive [the demon] out?”
He said to them, “Because of your little faith.” (Mt 17:19-20a)
Today’s gospel presented a story about a man who brought his son to Jesus. His son was possessed. The man had brought the son to Jesus’ disciples and, try as they might, they could not help the son.
So the man brought his son to Jesus and told Him that His disciples were unable to help. He begged Jesus to help his son.
Jesus freed the son from the demon that had possessed him and, when His disciples saw what had happened and questioned Him about it, Jesus took them to task, telling them that nothing had happened because of their little faith.
It is alarming to think that our faith could be so weak as to leave us powerless against the evils and terrors that confront us in this life. Yet, it is true.
In order to make it through life — to make it through this day — we must have faith in God, even if it is only faith the size of a mustard seed.
As long as we tend it, with the barest amount of faith, God can help us grow.
Increasing our faith each day, we can proclaim the Word of God boldly.
FAITH ACTION: In prayer today, ask the Lord to increase your faith.