THE WORD THIS WEEKEND

This weekend at Catholic mass, we will hear the story of Bartimaeus - a blind man.  He was sitting aside the road when he heard that Jesus was passing by.  The story is simple but with a significant message.  

The blind man called out to Jesus to have mercy on him.  Mark records that Jesus didn't hear him or at least didn't respond.  Bartimaeus called out again and again, "Jesus, have mercy on me."  He called out so loud and so often that the people around him told him to be quiet.  He didn't listen to them and repeated, "Jesus, have mercy on me."  

Finally, Jesus stopped and told his disciples to bring him near.  Jesus, simply said, "What is it you want?"  He replied, "To see, Lord."  Jesus said, "Go your way, your faith has saved you."  Immediately, he could see.  

We should notice the persistence of the blind man and how he wouldn't be deterred.  Never give up on your prayers.  God works in His own time and often for reasons we don't fathom.  Also note the Jesus, said that is was the man's faith that had done the trick.  Faith is what allows us to keep on keeping on -  to ask again and again. 

Another important point about the incident is that Jesus asked the man what he wanted.  Jesus knew what he wanted but he wanted him to say it.  It's a lesson for us.  Don't fall into a trap by assuming God knows what you want or need so you don't have to say it or ask for it.  You do!  Be like the blind man; say, verbalize, what you want. 

Have a great and blessed weekend.  Know that I love you  - - -  yes, you.

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 HAPPY BIRTHDAY, MADELINE 😘