Memorial of Saint Elizabeth of Hungary, Religious
Luke 18: 35-43
A cry that Jesus never ignores

As Jesus approached Jericho, a blind man sat by the roadside, calling out in desperation: “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” Despite the crowd’s attempts to silence him, he shouted all the louder. That raw, relentless cry stopped Jesus in His tracks — and the man received not only his sight, but also salvation.

This story reminds us that faith is not always calm or composed. Sometimes, it is a cry from the depths — the prayer of one who refuses to give up hope. The blind man’s persistence is what draws Jesus’ attention. He would not be silenced, not by the noise of the crowd nor by the indifference of others. His faith broke through every barrier.

In contrast, those walking with Jesus — the ones supposedly “close” to Him — tried to hush the man. How often do we, even unconsciously, discourage others from seeking God with passion or childlike trust? Faith can sometimes embarrass us when it becomes too raw, too loud, too demanding. Yet that is often the very faith that moves the heart of Christ.

Jesus teaches us here that no genuine cry for mercy ever goes unheard. He halts His journey, turns toward the one who calls, and restores sight — not only to the eyes, but to the heart.

We, too, may find ourselves “blind” at times — unable to see hope, meaning, or light in our situations. In such moments, let us imitate the blind man’s courage and persistence. Cry out to the Lord with trust: “Jesus, have mercy on me!”

For the Lord who stopped for one blind beggar on the road to Jericho will also stop for you.

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Cum Approbatione Ecclesiastica 2025