The stories in the gospels of nameless individuals approaching Jesus for help out of the blue are plenty; so much so, perhaps, that we forget how extremely in need one must feel to beg. And to beg someone you might not know, at that. For the distraught father who knelt before Jesus and begged for pity for his son, it must have seemed like the world was stacked against him. In truth, this man could be any one of us. I imagine each one of us could finish this sentence as relates to our own lives: Lord, have pity...

... on my loved one who is suffering.
... on my family that is divided.
... on my community that is healing.
... on our nation and our world.
... on me.

You see, we live in a world that is guided by the false belief that everything can be controlled and managed. Therefore, if there is a broken aspect of one's life, that individual simply needs to employ a different strategy, try harder, 'skill-up' - mould the world to his or her will. There is something to be said for individual agency and initiative. Indeed, there is nothing that is impossible. However, we cannot do it alone. 

After seeing Jesus exorcise the demon, his disciples are confounded that they, themselves could not do this. Jesus met their Why? not with a charge to employ more self-reliance. Quite the opposite, actually. Jesus implores them to have faith. He refers to this mountain as if he is looking at it or standing on it at this moment. This is no abstract charge. 

As Moses implored to the Israelites of old, let us take to heart these words, teach them to our children, proclaim them to the world and model them. Take to heart, also, that you are enough. Have faith.