Many people rebuked him, telling him to be quiet, but he only shouted louder,
“Son of David, have mercy on me!”
In this Sunday’s Gospel, we hear how the cries of Bartimaeus did not go unanswered. Jesus, moved with compassion, restored his sight.
Have you ever felt discouraged, tempted to give up on God, or without hope, believing your life is beyond help? Have you ever been dissuaded by family or friends from taking a positive step towards overcoming a habit that has blinded you to the beauty of God, family or life? Have you lost the patience or hope to wait on God?
The story of Bartimaeus in today’s Gospel encourages and renews our hope, reminding us that we have a God who listens and hears our cries. Jesus had compassion for Bartimaeus and came to him because his faith persisted despite the discouraging voices of the crowd. It wasn’t merely his voice that attracted Jesus, but his unwavering faith: “Your faith has healed you.”
Jesus asked Bartimaeus to express what he wanted because God wants us to make our needs known to Him. This is why we are encouraged to present our petitions to God in prayer. In prayer, our voices are heard. Prayer always attracts the kindness of God, our beloved father, ABBA.
What prayer would you make today?
Ronan Barry
