Sunday Reflections | 30th Sunday in Ordinary Times
By SIDTP SoCom
Published on October 27, 2024
As Jesus was leaving Jericho with his disciples and a sizable crowd, Bartimaeus, a blind man, the son of Timaeus, sat by the roadside begging.
On hearing that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to cry out and say, “Jesus, son of David, have pity on me!” Many rebuked him, telling him to be silent. But he kept calling out all the more, “Son of David, have pity on me!”
Jesus stopped and said, “Call him.” So they called the blind man, saying to him, “Take courage; get up, Jesus is
calling you.” Bartimaeus threw aside his cloak, sprang up, and came to Jesus. Jesus said to him in reply, “What do you want me to do for you?” The blind man replied to him, “Master, I want to see.” Jesus told him, “Go your way; your faith has saved you.” Immediately the man received his sight and followed Jesus on the way.
In today’s Gospel, we meet Bartimaeus, a blind beggar sitting by the roadside. When he hears that Jesus is passing by, he cries out, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” Despite being told to be quiet, Bartimaeus persists, demonstrating his deep faith and determination to reach Jesus.
When Jesus calls him, Bartimaeus throws off his cloak and comes to Him. This act symbolizes leaving behind his old life in pursuit of healing and new hope. Jesus then asks, “What do you want me to do for you?” Bartimaeus boldly replies, “Rabbi, I want to see.”
Jesus responds, “Go, your faith has healed you.” Immediately, Bartimaeus receives his sight and begins to follow Jesus along the road. This story illustrates the power of faith and the importance of being persistent in our prayers, even when faced with obstacles.
As we reflect on this Gospel, let’s consider our own lives. What are we seeking from Jesus? Are we willing to call out for His help, even when others might tell us to be quiet? How can we leave behind what holds us back in order to pursue our faith more deeply?
May we have the courage of Bartimaeus to ask for healing and the faith to follow Jesus on our journey.
