First Reading
Jeremiah 31:7-9
For thus says the LORD: “Sing aloud with gladness for Jacob, and raise shouts for the chief of the nations; proclaim, give praise, and say, `The LORD has saved his people, the remnant of Israel.’ Behold, I will bring them from the north country, and gather them from the farthest parts of the earth, among them the blind and the lame, the woman with child and her who is in travail, together; a great company, they shall return here. With weeping they shall come, and with consolations I will lead them back, I will make them walk by brooks of water, in a straight path in which they shall not stumble; for I am a father to Israel, and E’phraim is my first-born.
Second Reading
Hebrews 5:1-6
For every high priest chosen from among men is appointed to act on behalf of men in relation to God, to offer gifts and sacrifices for sins. He can deal gently with the ignorant and wayward, since he himself is beset with weakness. Because of this he is bound to offer sacrifice for his own sins as well as for those of the people. And one does not take the honor upon himself, but he is called by God, just as Aaron was. So also Christ did not exalt himself to be made a high priest, but was appointed by him who said to him, “Thou art my Son, today I have begotten thee”; as he says also in another place, “Thou art a priest for ever, after the order of Melchiz’edek.”
Gospel
Mark 10:46-52
And they came to Jericho; and as he was leaving Jericho with his disciples and a great multitude, Bartimae’us, a blind beggar, the son of Timae’us, was sitting by the roadside. And when he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to cry out and say, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” And many rebuked him, telling him to be silent; but he cried out all the more, “Son of David, have mercy on me!” And Jesus stopped and said, “Call him.” And they called the blind man, saying to him, “Take heart; rise, he is calling you.” And throwing off his mantle he sprang up and came to Jesus. And Jesus said to him, “What do you want me to do for you?” And the blind man said to him, “Master, let me receive my sight.” And Jesus said to him, “Go your way; your faith has made you well.” And immediately he received his sight and followed him on the way.
Reflection
Mark 10:46-52 tells the inspiring story of Bartimaeus, a blind beggar whose faith and persistence lead to his healing by Jesus. This passage offers several profound lessons on faith, persistence, and the transformative power of encountering Jesus.
Bartimaeus, despite his blindness and low social status, recognizes Jesus as the “Son of David,” a messianic title that acknowledges Jesus’ divine authority. His cry for mercy is a testament to his faith, believing that Jesus has the power to heal him. Even when the crowd tries to silence him, Bartimaeus persists, demonstrating that true faith is unwavering and bold.
Jesus’ response to Bartimaeus is equally significant. He stops and calls for Bartimaeus, showing that He is attentive to those who seek Him earnestly, regardless of their social standing. Jesus’ question, “What do you want me to do for you?” invites Bartimaeus to articulate his need, highlighting the importance of expressing our desires and needs in prayer.
Bartimaeus’ request is simple yet profound: “Master, let me receive my sight.” His faith is rewarded as Jesus declares, “Go your way; your faith has made you well.” This healing is not just physical but also spiritual, as Bartimaeus immediately follows Jesus on the way, signifying his new path as a disciple.
Reflecting on this passage, we are encouraged to approach Jesus with the same faith and persistence as Bartimaeus. It reminds us that no matter our circumstances, Jesus hears our cries and responds with compassion. This story also challenges us to be persistent in our faith, even when faced with obstacles or discouragement from others.
Moreover, Bartimaeus’ healing and subsequent discipleship illustrate the transformative power of encountering Jesus. When we truly experience His grace and mercy, our lives are changed, and we are called to follow Him more closely.