Daily Readings - Thu Jun 01 2023
Mark
46Then they came to Jericho. As Jesus and his disciples, together with a large crowd, were leaving the city, a blind man, Bartimaeus (that is, the Son of Timaeus), was sitting by the roadside begging.47When he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to shout, "Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!"48Many rebuked him and told him to be quiet, but he shouted all the more, "Son of David, have mercy on me!"49Jesus stopped and said, "Call him." So they called to the blind man, "Cheer up! On your feet! He's calling you."50Throwing his cloak aside, he jumped to his feet and came to Jesus.51"What do you want me to do for you?" Jesus asked him. The blind man said, "Rabbi, I want to see."52"Go," said Jesus, "your faith has healed you." Immediately he received his sight and followed Jesus along the road.
Sermon
In today's readings, we are invited to reflect on the wisdom of God and the power of faith. The first reading from Sirach reminds us of the beauty and order of God's creation, highlighting His wisdom in all that He has made. It encourages us to contemplate the works of the Lord and to recognize His hand in the world around us. The reading emphasizes that God's wisdom is beyond human understanding, yet it is revealed in the intricate details of creation and the mysteries of the human heart.
The Gospel from Mark brings us face to face with the living expression of God's wisdom in Jesus Christ. The story of Bartimaeus, the blind man, shows us the transformative power of faith. Bartimaeus, despite his physical blindness, sees with the eyes of faith. He cries out to Jesus, undeterred by the crowds who try to silence him, and his persistence is rewarded when Jesus restores his sight. This miracle is not just about physical healing; it is a spiritual awakening, a call to see the world and ourselves in a new light.
These readings challenge us to examine our own faith and trust in God. Like Bartimaeus, we may face challenges that seem insurmountable, but it is precisely in these moments that we are called to cry out to the Lord with persistence and hope. The wisdom of Sirach reminds us that God's plan is always at work, even when we cannot fully understand it. Let us ask for the grace to see beyond our limitations and to trust in God's loving providence. May our faith, like Bartimaeus', lead us to spiritual sight and a deeper union with Christ.