Opened Eyes and Unashamed Hearts (Friday of the First Week of Advent)

Friday of the First Week of Advent

Reading 1: Isaiah 29:17-24
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 27:1, 4, 13-14
Gospel: Matthew 9:27-31

Opening Prayer Lord of Light and Salvation, whom shall we fear? As we enter into this time of quiet reflection, we ask for the grace to dwell in Your house all the days of our lives. Clear away the gloom and darkness that clouds our vision, so that we may gaze upon Your loveliness and recognize Your work in our midst. Amen.

Reflection Today’s readings offer a profound promise of transformation and restoration. As we walk through the early days of Advent, the scriptures invite us to move from darkness into light, and from shame into dignity.

In the first reading from Isaiah, we are presented with a vision of a world turned right-side up. It is a world where "Lebanon shall be changed into an orchard," and where the deaf hear and the blind see. But perhaps most touching is the promise regarding the emotional and spiritual state of God's people: "The lowly will ever find joy in the Lord... For the tyrant will be no more and the arrogant will have gone".

For anyone who has ever felt marginalized, silenced, or judged by "those whose mere word condemns a man", Isaiah offers a specific hope. The prophet declares that "Jacob shall have nothing to be ashamed of, nor shall his face grow pale". In the ancient world, a pale face was often a sign of fear or deep shame. God promises a future where that shame is erased, where we can stand tall, no longer ensnared by those who wish to exclude us or "find fault".

This theme of moving from darkness to sight continues in Matthew’s Gospel. Two blind men follow Jesus, crying out, "Son of David, have pity on us!". It is worth noting their persistence; they follow Him all the way into the house. They refuse to be left on the margins.

When Jesus engages them, He asks a simple, powerful question: "Do you believe that I can do this?". He does not ask about their background, their status, or their worthiness according to the religious law of the day. He asks about their trust. When they say "Yes," He touches their eyes—an intimate act of connection—and says, "Let it be done for you according to your faith".

The Responsorial Psalm anchors these readings in courage. "The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom should I fear?". In a world that can often feel hostile or isolating, the Psalmist reminds us to "wait for the Lord with courage; be stouthearted".

Today, let us reflect on the "gloom and darkness" we might be carrying. Whether it is the darkness of anxiety, the gloom of exclusion, or the shadow of shame, we are invited to bring it to the One who touches our eyes and opens them. We are reminded that in God’s house—where we seek to dwell—the arrogant are silenced, and the lowly find their joy.

Closing Prayer Gracious God, You are the defender of the lowly and the sight of the blind. We thank You for the promise that we shall have nothing to be ashamed of in Your presence. When we feel judged or condemned by the world, remind us that You are our life's refuge. Grant us the courage to wait for You, the faith to believe in Your healing power, and the vision to see Your bounty in the land of the living. Amen.