Word to the Wise
Monday, November 17, 2008 - St. Elizabeth of Hungary
[Revelation 1:1-4; 2:1-5 and Luke 18:35-43]Jesus asked him, "What do you want me to do for you?" He replied, "Lord, please let me see." Jesus told him, "Have sight; your faith has saved you."
Have you ever stood in line for a long time to meet someone famous only to find yourself "tongue-tied" when it finally becomes your turn to speak to the famous one? It might be an interesting spiritual exercise to ask oneself just what one WOULD say if suddenly one had the chance to respond to Jesus' question: What do you want me to do for you?" In reflecting on this I am mindful of the prayer of Solomon who, upon being invited by God to make any request (1 Kings 3), asked not for health, long age or wealth but for wisdom. The request was pleasing to God and was granted. Solomon did not always act wisely, but he couldn't say God refused him what he asked for! So, if I were to be asked by Jesus: What do you want me to do for you?, what should I ask for? The Blind Beggar had an obvious need but he already had showed true faith (sight) which enabled him to ask Jesus for physical sight. I don't have to stand in line very long to meet Jesus. And there are no officious disciples telling me to shut up. I pray every day for mercy and wisdom to meet the particular challenges of the day, whatever they may be and wherever I may be. It's difficult to be more concrete than that - otherwise I'd spend all day enumerating the needs! In the seminary I prayed that I would, as a priest, be a good preacher and good confessor. On the whole, that request has been granted in overflowing ways (any shortcomings are, like Solomon's, my own fault!) Think about it. How would you answer that question? I think the Lord will wait patiently if you feel tongue-tied! AMEN
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