Let Me See Again

by Deacon Lorna Goodison on October 21, 2021

When we think literally of “seeing” we think of eyesight. But “seeing” is often used as a metaphor for spiritual insight or understanding. Three times Jesus told His disciples that he would be betrayed, killed, and rise again after three days. Yet they lacked the spiritual insight to receive His message. They could see Jesus only as they hoped for One whose reign would be powerful and earthly.  Their attention, therefore, turned to their own place in his reign, what greatness and places of preeminence they could attain.

 This Sunday, the gospel of Mark (10:46-52) presents us, not with a story about aspirations of greatness, but with the story of Jesus’ healing of a lowly blind beggar, Bartimaeus. We imagine that Bartimaeus became a beggar because of his blindness. The unsympathetic crowd attempted to silence him. But twice Bartimaeus cried, “Jesus Son of David, have mercy on me!”  Jesus’ reputation had preceded Him and though physically blind, Bartimaeus recognized who Jesus was, with his soul’s “eyes”. He, therefore, proclaimed Jesus as King and Messiah. Knowing that King Jesus healed many who were sick and uplifted the lowly, he hoped Jesus would hear his cries. And Jesus asks Bartimaeus the same question he had earlier asked James and John, “What do you want me to do for you?” While James’ and John’s response to this question was a plea for honor and privilege, Bartimaeus was satisfied to be noticed by Jesus and be healed. He humbly refers to Jesus as “my Teacher” and asks, “let me see again.”  Jesus discerned his faith and humility and offered him more than he asked for. He received physical and spiritual wellness, “your faith has made you well.” Bartimaeus left his old cloak behind, his old way of life, and followed Jesus.

 Bartimaeus’ story reminds us that disciples come to Jesus humbly. Disciples come to “see” Jesus as Lord and follow Him faithfully. After Jesus’ death and resurrection, the disciples’ spiritual eyes were opened to see the glory of God in Christ and they became dedicated followers. May we, contemplate daily on the goodness of God in Christ and humbly cry out, “Teacher, let me see again.” May we be open to the Spirit’s movement, the ways God wants to move in, and through us to expand God’s reign and by God’s grace, may we be faithful followers.

Tags: see, follow, spiritual, faithful, insight, understanding, blind, seeing

About the Author
Deacon Lorna Goodison

Reverend Lorna Goodison was ordained to the Diaconate on April 29, 2007. After discerning a call to ordained ministry, Deacon Lorna completed a process of spiritual discernment and pursued three years of study at the Diocesan School for Christian Studies. She also completed three units of hospice care training through Vitas and for a short while she was a volunteer Chaplain. Highlights of her continuing education activities include a guided visit to Israel and attending the Festival of Homiletics in Boulder, Colorado.

Soon after her ordination, Deacon Lorna was called to serve as Deacon at St. Mary Magdalene. She initiated an outreach ministry to the homeless at St. Laurence Chapel, obtaining the support and involvement of most members of the congregation. This ministry remained a vibrant outreach of the Church until the Chapel closed in 2019.  Other outreach ministries formed include an informal group of members who stay in touch with members who are ill and shut-in. Deacon Lorna remains committed to both the in-reach and outreach ministries of the Church. She has led quiet day reflections for groups within and outside of St. Mary Magdalene. She has often led Deacon’s Masses at small churches without a priest. Of all the ministries in which Deacon Lorna participates, she is most humbled and grateful to be involved in the ministry of praying with congregants facing life’s challenges.

Deacon Lorna serves the Diocese of Southeast Florida as a member of the Disciplinary Committee. She also serves on the Board of Deacons.   

Professionally, Deacon Lorna worked for some years in Human Resource Departments as a Training Manager, but most of her working years were spent in Social Work. She worked with at-risk teenagers counselling them and guiding them to resources to build a meaningful future. The last twenty years of her profession, were spent working with Seniors, guiding them to the resources needed to maintain their safety and independence. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Social Work and a master’s degree in Adult Education. She is now retired, cherishes some alone time for prayer and reflection, but divides her time between the Church and her family which consists of two daughters, their husbands and three grandchildren.

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