I am sure we have all heard or perhaps even uttered the words, “He got what he deserved” or “She got what she deserved”, a sentiment totally contrary to our Christian faith. Everyone deserves mercy, love, and respect.
In our Gospel this weekend, we encounter Bartimaeus, a person born without the ability to see. Being visually impaired at the time of Jesus presented many challenges, the biggest of which was the attitude of society. Disabilities, physical ailments, poverty, and misfortune were seen as a punishment from God for sinful behavior. In other words, at some level, they got what they deserved.
By the reaction of the crowd in our gospel, we can assume that Bartimaeus was undervalued and overlooked by many. We can also surmise that Bartimaeus did not dismiss his own self-worth. He saw something in himself and in Jesus that many others did not. When he called out to Jesus, he was told to be quiet. While others tried to stifle his voice, Jesus heard and saw him clearly. Jesus can see through the facades we sometimes put on, the masks we wear, and see the inner beaut that all too often is hidden from ourselves and others.
Bartimaeus trusted that Jesus was different, and he was right. Unlike the rich man we encountered a few weeks ago, who left Jesus feeling sad because the cost of discipleship was too great, Bartimaeus simply asked for mercy. The response of Jesus was telling. Jesus told Bartimaeus that it was his faith that saved him; his faith that had restored his sight. Bartimaeus immediately left the past behind and followed Jesus on the path of discipleship.
The challenge for us is to see with eyes of faith, to not let challenges blind us from God’s love. Our theme for the coming liturgical year is “Hope Never Disappoints.” Let us ask God to help us throw away our cloaks, our masks, our fears, and our judgmental attitudes, so that we might follow Jesus more closely and see with eyes of love. With hope in our hearts, we will not be disappointed, because God is with us, loving us, encouraging us, and walking with us no matter what challenges we face in life.
May God bless you and your loved ones today, tomorrow, and forever more. Fr. Harry