When Faith Requires No Proof: A Reflection on Believing Without Seeing
The father realized that just at that time Jesus had said to him, “Your son will live,” and he and his whole household came to believe.” ~ Jn 4:53
Today’s Gospel, prompted me to ponder a few questions:
- Do I always need to see it to believe it?
- What do I need to fully believe God?
- Do I pray out of faith or desperation?
- If my prayers are never answered, how long would I keep my faith?
The high ranking official took the 10-12 mile walk from Capernaum to Cana to beg Jesus for a miracle. At first, Jesus seems to call him out stating that they only believe because they see signs. Nevertheless, Jesus heals the son of the royal official.
What I find intriguing is the nuanced writing of John. It seems there is a lot said between the lines.
Notice that he states the royal official came to believe twice. The first is right after Jesus’ affirmation; the second, after his servants told him the time his son was healed.
What does it mean?
Here’s how I suspect my mind would have experienced the interaction.
- I run most of the day to get to Jesus out of desperation to save my son because I have heard he can do miracles.
- After insisting, Jesus tells me my son is cured. He has such a presence and confidence that I simply take at his word.
- Without thanking him or anything, I run back home to verify what Jesus said.
- On my way back, I run into my servants and they tell me what happened.
- Surprised, amazed, and thankful I share with them what happened and we all acknowledge Jesus as the Son of Man.
Why is it that I am quick to believe wholeheartedly the things of the world but doubt for months the things of God?
One post from a random influencer on social media and I become a faithful advocate of conspiracy theories, political schemes, and scandals.
But, when someone comes to me to talk about God incarnate, the validity of the Bible, a private revelation, healings, the Eucharist, and answered prayers I’m quick to expect doctorate level evidence and infallible arguments before I even consider if it can be true or not.
No. I’m not advocating for blind faith but I am questioning the lack of consistency in skepticism between secular and religious topics.
Jesus knew the superficial faith of the man and rebuked him. Yet, in his mercy, gave the man the sign anyway.
Let us give thanks to the Lord for his mercy, and ask for the grace to believe Him without the need to see.
In peace,
~Juan
