It is 15th February 2017. The readings are from Genesis 8:6-13, 20-22; and the Gospel from Mark 8:22-26. In the first reading we reflect the end of the flood and the thanksgiving sacrifice of Noah. The waters of the flood are the reminder of our Baptism by which all our sins are removed and made us a new creation. The olive branch is indeed a sign of peace restored and the presence of dove prompts the decent of the Holy Spirit during the Baptism. This story suggests the incredible patience of Noah as he waited for God’s time to venture into something new. Unless we wait for God and God’s blessings, even though the timing may be perfect in venturing out might not bring the desired results and blessings. During our difficult times of our lives, no matter how powerful the evil tsunamis and cyclones bang and boom us, we need to trust in God with tremendous patience. In addition to that, God promises God’s love for us in every change God makes. Until Christ comes in glory, we need to be faithful to God even though the floods of evil could mercilessly toss us upside down. The responsorial Psalm praises, “A thanksgiving sacrifice I make to you, O Lord.” (Ps.115:17). The Gospel tunes our faith by perseverance. Jesus heals a person with blindness. The healing process happens in a gradual way. The faith comes by time and in stages. We cannot change everything overnight even though we have the desired faith in Jesus. It all happens in God’s time. It is our patience that makes us our faith grow and we need to work at it. Clarity and grasping the truth comes by stages. Allowing Jesus to touch us constantly bring the blessings of healing we desire. May the Lord give us the patience we require in our faith encounters. May you have a good day.