Monday, November 18, 2013. 

Today's Liturgical Reading by Daily Flash, Goa. 

Dedication of the Basilicas of St. Peter and St. Paul. 

1 Maccabees 1:10-15, 41-43, 54-57, 62-64; Psalm 118[119]:53, 61, 134, 150, 155, 158; Gospel : Luke 18:35-43. [Please share today's Gospel with family, friends/neighbors.]

Focus:  “What do you want me to do for you?” (Luke 18:41)

In today’s First Reading, king Antiochus Epiphanes wanted to do away with the Jewish forms of worship. He ordered everyone in his kingdom to give up their individual customs and adopt his own. Many blindly obeyed.

Herd mentality is as common today as it ever was, despite the advancement of education and culture. Following a certain political leader, buying the latest smartphone, rushing for seats in a particular college or for government jobs – these are a few examples. Of greater concern is a herd mentality in living our religion. Perhaps many of us go to church, recite prayers and novenas, or even attend retreats because others around us are doing so. This, however, contradicts the essence of our faith, which is a personal relationship with our Lord.

A clear instance of Jesus’ desire to be close to each one of us, individually, is seen in today’s Gospel. In spite of the crowds following Him, He stopped and asked the blind man who was eager to meet Him, “What do you want me to do for you?”

Jesus is not a Lord for whom every follower is the same. To Him, each disciple is special. He asks each of us the same question today. And if we respond in faith, He will surely do what we ask, just as He healed the blind man.

Fruit:  What is my response to the question (Focus) that Jesus asks me today?