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

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