The scriptures of the 30th Sunday point us to the reality that being spiritually blind can seem worse than physical blindness for believers. With the eyes of faith, we can view the interior of our lives and the direction our lives are headed.
“Lord, I want to see!” cries Bartimaeus, a powerful declaration of his desire for both physical and spiritual sight. His plea is not just for his own vision, but for the clarity of those around him who profess faith yet still harbor doubt. Bartimaeus, in his vulnerability, seizes this moment to commit himself to the transformative power of faith, the very force that can liberate us from both physical and spiritual blindness.
Through the eyes of faith, we can see more than we could ever imagine. “Have mercy on me” is the prayer of faith. With my eyes opened, I both see and hear the Lord calling me to a more abundant life. This transformative power of faith gives us hope, as we realize that with family and friends, leaning on our faith, and seeing others as Christ sees them are the things that matter the most. “Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me.”
We are always welcome to call out to Jesus, knowing that no matter what we face, he is as near as our next prayer. Bartimaeus, through the eyes of faith, gained more than just his sight. He gained a deeper faith. What could we receive with a renewed vision? What are the needs that drive us to cry out to Jesus?