Faith that Touches the Heart of Christ

 Faith that Touches the Heart of Christ

Reflection on Matthew 9:18–26

In this passage from the Gospel of Matthew, we witness two profound encounters with Jesus—one from a synagogue official pleading for his daughter’s life, and another from a woman suffering silently for twelve years. These two individuals, though vastly different in status and circumstance, are united by one essential virtue: faith.

The official, in humility and desperation, approaches Jesus, believing that even death cannot prevent the Lord’s healing power. He doesn’t demand signs or proof; he simply asks. Likewise, the woman, too ashamed or fearful to speak, reaches out in secret, convinced that touching even the fringe of His cloak would be enough to heal her.

Jesus’ response to both is filled with compassion and authority. He restores life to the dead and wholeness to the broken, not only through divine power, but through a relationship that is made possible by faith. His words to the woman, “Take heart, daughter; your faith has saved you,” reveal that God’s mercy is not limited to the bold or the loud, but is open to the humble and hidden.

As Catholics, we are reminded here of the power of the sacraments—especially the Eucharist and Reconciliation—as the places where we “touch” Christ. Like the woman, we may come quietly, with pain or hidden wounds, and like the official, we may come boldly, interceding for those we love. In both cases, Christ receives us with mercy and meets us in our need.

Key Takeaway:
Jesus responds to sincere, humble faith—whether it is expressed boldly or quietly. Let us bring our needs and the needs of others to Him, trusting in His power to heal, restore, and give life.