Importance of the Request : Lord Increase our Faith

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season:  Twenty Seventh Week : Sunday*

*Gospel : Luke 17:5-10*

*First Reading : Habakkuk 1:2-3; 2:2-4*

*Responsorial Psalm : 95 :1-9*

*Second Reading : 2 Tim 1:6-6;13-14*

*Importance of the Request : Lord Increase our Faith*

*1) Context of the Request*

The apostles said to Jesus, “Lord, increase our faith,” immediately after Jesus spoke about:

Forgiving others repeatedly, even seven times a day if necessary (Luke 17:3–4).

This command must have seemed overwhelming to them. They realized that such forgiveness, love, and patience were beyond mere human strength — it required faith.

So their request came from humility and recognition of their weakness. They didn’t ask for more power or knowledge, but for deeper trust in God.

*2) Why They Asked This Request*

The disciples asked this because:

*A) They realized their faith was limited*

Facing the demand of unconditional forgiveness and discipleship, they saw their insufficiency.

*B) They understood faith as a gift, not self-made.*

Faith grows only by God’s grace; hence, they turned to Jesus, the source of faith.

*C) They wanted to live the life Jesus taught*

True discipleship required a living, active faith that could endure trials, doubts, and challenges.

*D) They desired spiritual maturity*

They wanted faith not just in words, but in action — to trust Jesus fully in every situation.

*3) Jesus’ Response*

Jesus answered : “If you had faith the size of a mustard seed, you could say to this mulberry tree, ‘Be uprooted and planted in the sea,’ and it would obey you.” (Luke 17:6)

He teaches that the power of faith does not depend on its size, but on its authenticity and direction.

Even a small, genuine faith can do great things when it is rooted in God’s power, not our own.

*4) Ways to Increase Our Faith*

Faith grows like a seed — when nourished daily. Here are some ways:

*A) Prayer* Constant dialogue with God strengthens trust.

Like the disciples, we too must pray: “Lord, increase my faith.”

Hearing and Meditating on the Word of God

“Faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.” (Romans 10:17)

Reflecting on Scripture helps us see how God acts faithfully through history.

*B) Sacraments* 

Especially the Eucharist and Reconciliation, which deepen our communion with Christ.

They are visible signs that strengthen invisible grace.

*C) Obedience and Surrender*

Faith grows through acts of trust — when we obey even without full understanding.

Abraham’s faith grew through obedience.

*D) Trials and Perseverance*

Difficult moments test and purify faith.

Like gold refined by fire, faith becomes stronger through challenges.

*E) Community and Witness*

Being with other believers helps sustain our faith journey.

Sharing testimonies strengthens mutual trust in God’s work.

*F) Love and Forgiveness*

Faith expresses itself through love (Gal 5:6).

Each act of mercy deepens our faith in God’s mercy.

*5) Final Thought*

Faith is not a possession but a relationship — a living trust in Jesus.

When we feel weak, our cry, “Lord, increase our faith,” becomes a prayer of dependence, not despair.

Jesus doesn’t ask for great faith, but for real faith — a small spark of trust that lets Him act.

Faith grows not in comfort but in obedience, surrender, and love.

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*