In today’s first reading, we see that many were attracted to the Gentile way of living. Some even hid their identity to blend into the popular Hellenistic culture of the time. Doesn’t this ring a bell in our hearts about the present age? Are we not also caught up in modern ways: social media, addiction to smartphones, drugs, and climbing the ladder of fame and power without considering the consequences? Many live as if God no longer exists. Yet there were also those who were ready to die rather than profane the Holy Covenant. They became martyrs. What about us? In the Gospel reading, Jesus responds to the faith of the blind beggar. We may not be physically blind, but we can be emotionally and spiritually blind to the ways of God. St. Paul says, “The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel” (2 Cor 4:4). May the Lord open our inner eyes to know him and to follow him.

PRAYER: Abba Father, give us the grace to follow your Son, the Light of the World. Amen.