***
Gospel:
As Jesus approached Jericho
a blind man was sitting by the roadside begging,
and hearing a crowd going by, he inquired what was happening.
They told him,
“Jesus of Nazareth is passing by.”
He shouted, “Jesus, Son of David, have pity on me!”
The people walking in front rebuked him,
telling him to be silent,
but he kept calling out all the more,
“Son of David, have pity on me!”
Then Jesus stopped and ordered that he be brought to him;
and when he came near, Jesus asked him,
“What do you want me to do for you?”
He replied, “Lord, please let me see.”
Jesus told him, “Have sight; your faith has saved you.”
He immediately received his sight
and followed him, giving glory to God.
When they saw this, all the people gave praise to God.
The Gospel of the Lord.
***
The story of this blind man, whom Mark tells us is named Bartimaeus, is all about seeing.
Yes, Bartimaeus has his physical sight restored. But that’s not what matters most. Someday Bartimaeus will close his eyes as his friends commend him to God.
In that sense, physical sight, and the miraculous healing of Bartimaeus’ eyes, has a shelf-life of only a few years.
What really matters is the fact that Bartimaeus sees with eyes of faith.
Meaning, he sees Jesus as Lord, something we all must do.
***
***
This is the Gospel’s invitation to all of us – to see Jesus and the world around us in a new light, with eyes of faith.
***
For example, as the new pastor/administrator of Saint Pius, the Lord is inviting me to see our parish with fresh eyes.
To see the many gifts and talents present in all of you; to see those in need of a shepherd; to see how we can share the Gospel in light of this pandemic – and beyond.
But what about you? Who or what are you being invited to see differently, or deeper?
Perhaps we need to see the present moment with a fresh set of eyes in order to feel a sense of hope.
Or maybe we need to see someone who’s hurt us in a different light.
***
As we begin another week, may the words of Bartimaeus – a disciple of Jesus – become our own.
“Master, I want to see” – to see the good in myself, the good in others, and above all your presence within us.
Thank you Father Kevin for the inspiring words. You are so gifted in that department. Praying for you on this new Journey in your precious life. Let us pray for each other and our colleagues and all those with whom and to whom we minister.🙏😇
Thanks so much Sister! God bless you. Prayers assured! 🙏