When they came to the other disciples, they saw a large crowd around them and the teachers of the law arguing with them. As soon as all the people saw Jesus, they were overwhelmed with wonder and ran to greet him. “What are you arguing with them about?” he asked. A man in the crowd answered, “Teacher, I brought you my son, who is possessed by a spirit that has robbed him of speech. Whenever it seizes him, it throws him to the ground. He foams at the mouth, gnashes his teeth and becomes rigid. I asked your disciples to drive out the spirit, but they could not.” “You unbelieving generation,” Jesus replied, “how long shall I stay with you? How long shall I put up with you? Bring the boy to me.” So they brought him. When the spirit saw Jesus, it immediately threw the boy into a convulsion. He fell to the ground and rolled around, foaming at the mouth. Jesus asked the boy’s father, “How long has he been like this?” “From childhood,” he answered. “It has often thrown him into fire or water to kill him. But if you can do anything, take pity on us and help us.” “ ‘If you can’?” said Jesus. “Everything is possible for one who believes.”

Who is the most worthy of God’s power? Who qualifies?

I have had and heard these types of conversations in the past. Whether it is perceived failures in ministry or in family or in life, I have found that life is never short on people who want to elevate themselves, deflect blame, and separate themselves from perceived failures.

Out of these situations, much harm and damage can be done. Relationships break apart, churches separate, and the church looks weak and unloving.

So what do I do when something I am called to do … I am not able to do? Or when others are blaming me for a failure?

I believe this is at the heart of Jesus’ frustration here. Instead of belief in God, there is arguing and a focus on earthly qualifications and abilities between the teachers of the law and the disciples. The reality is, none of us can qualify or measure up to God’s standards in life by ourselves.

And so Jesus chastises these groups of people saying, “You unbelieving generation.” And at times I believe God has been frustrated with me in the same way he was with the disciples, the Pharisees, and the boy’s own father.

So what does Jesus do? He prays and heals this boy.

Am I willing to initially look foolish, make mistakes, and do so without comparison or blaming others? Am I willing to approach situations with humility and go to God in prayer for the answers? Will I have a childlike belief and not waiver in it?

Lord, thank you for not being satisfied with a faith that is weak and makes excuses. I pray that you will challenge my faith and continue to teach me to go to you more often and with more of my “issues of the day” in prayer. I believe and I want to BELIEVE STRONGER!