In today’s reading, Jesus tells his apostles their faith is less than the size of a mustard seed, which is about 1/8th of an inch, weighing only a few milligrams.  If the apostles, the witnesses to Jesus’ ministry, have so little faith, what does this say about my faith?   

Do I have faith enough to trust that God is in control of the ultimate outcome, no matter who wins the mid-term elections?

Do I have enough faith to trust that God works tirelessly alongside us to co-create a world where humanity and nature live in harmony and each person is accepted and valued?

Do I believe that nothing that happens in the world can derail God’s plan for salvation history? 

Do I trust that God longs to grow my faith? 

The good news is that today’s reading offers guidance for growing faith and trust.  I hear an invitation to ask for the grace to acknowledge that sin will inevitably occur (Lk 17:1), and only with God’s help can I avoid causing little ones to sin (Lk 17:2).  Knowing that I am a sinner, Jesus reminds me to offer forgiveness as often as necessary to anyone who sincerely seeks my forgiveness because God will always forgive me. 

Finally, I hear in this reading that increasing my faith is more than just asking Jesus to transform me instantly.  Faith and trust unfold over my life as I accept God’s invitation to embrace total surrender, which Ignatius prayed for in the Suscipe.

Take, Lord, and receive all my liberty,
my memory, my understanding,
and my entire will,
All I have and call my own.
You have given all to me.
To you, Lord, I return it.
Everything is yours; do with it what you will.
Give me only your love and your grace,
that is enough for me.

May we each seek to grow our faith beyond the size of a mustard seed.