Help my unbelief

Readings for Monday February 23, 2009

Memorial of Saint Polycarp, bishop and martyr

First Reading:  Sirach 1:1-10

Responsorial Psalm:  Psalm 93

Gospel:  Mark 9:14-29

Then he questioned his father,
"How long has this been happening to him?" 
He replied, "Since childhood.
It has often thrown him into fire and into water to kill him.
But if you can do anything, have compassion on us and help us."
Jesus said to him,
"'If you can!' Everything is possible to one who has faith."
Then the boy's father cried out, "I do believe, help my unbelief!" (Mark 9:21-24)

"This scene from today's gospel, shows a dad who makes the same mistake that we all do, he used the the word "if."  Using the word if may be fine when asking your spouse if they can have time to mow the lawn today, or when asking if someone can help out with something at work; but when talking with God this word should not be in our vocabulary.  I know that I am guilty of asking God "if" He could help me out with something or "if" He can answer my prayers.  When doing this, we must all remember this gospel, and become humble as the father in today's gospel was, he lowered himself before Jesus and asked Him to "help his unbelief."  We all can certainly use an increase in faith in our Lord, when times are good, and especially when we are challenged.  I pray that the Lord help all of us in our unbelief.  

"There is but one, Most High all-powerful creator-king and truly awe-inspiring one, seated upon his throne and he is the God of dominion." (Sir 1:6)  Remember, with God all things are possible ... may we all be granted help with our unbelief.  

Father above, we thank you for the gift of this day.  Lord, help us with our unbelief, increase our faith so that we may rely and put all of our trust in you.  Lord, we thank you and praise you for your many blessings.  Lord, we are your people, weak and frail without you; strengthen us and give us courage so that we can serve you without reserve.  We pray for all those who are searching for meaning in their lives, may they find it in you.  We ask this all through Christ our Lord.  Amen.