Open our Ears

What is the meaning of these signs?

When we reflect on today’s Gospel, we might ask ourselves: What is the meaning of these signs? Why does Jesus heal this man in this particular way?

Firstly, the man in this story represents human nature after the Fall. Following the original sin, humankind has struggled to hear the voice of God, to confess His name, and to act in accordance with His will.

What is described here, through the healing of a single individual, is indicative of what happens to all humanity through the incarnation of Christ.

Jesus lays His hands on the man. In the Bible, laying on of hands signifies the transfer of power or a blessing. Jesus uses saliva and His finger. Saliva can heal minor wounds, and the reference to the "finger of God" reminds us of divine power. By using these elements, Jesus blesses and heals the man with divine power through His humanity. This is the purpose of the Incarnation: God came down from heaven to heal us through the body of Christ.

But this physical healing symbolizes the healing of the soul.

God must first open the heart of a person so that they can hear His words. This is why we should pray for ourselves and our families, as only God can open our hearts.

He then grants the power to speak and confess His mighty works.

What are the implications for our daily lives?

We need to recognize that while evil cannot stop the Incarnation, it tries to prevent its effects from manifesting in our lives.

I asked an AI how it might make people lose their faith, and the response was troubling. One answer was:

Flood with Information and Distractions: It would exploit the overload of information and entertainment provided by technology. Constant connection to social media, media, and entertainment platforms can distract people from their spiritual lives. By keeping them busy with superficial things, they may find it harder to reflect, pray, or connect with God.

Maintain a life of prayer, as it keeps you attuned to hearing God’s voice. Without it, even if you are inundated with information, you might remain deaf to God’s word. Spend time reading the Scriptures.

And confess God’s presence not only with your voice but with your life.

This is why God came down: so that you might hear His voice and proclaim His mighty works through your life.

If you do not meditate on God’s word and live as a Christian, you are like the man who was deaf and mute. The Church hopes that one day you will open your heart and proclaim the miracles of God through your life.