I want to see!

I Want To See!
There are many healing miracles recorded in the gospels, but this is probably my favorite. Bartimaeus was a blind beggar sitting outside of Jericho begging for money from those who were passing by on their way to Jerusalem. It seems clear from the story, that he had heard of Jesus and his ability to heal people and give sight to the blind. But would he ever have occasion to encounter him? Indeed, he would, just as we do! Jesus was actually on his way to Jerusalem to die on the cross for all who will call upon his name when he passes near to Bartimaeus. Once Bartimaeus heard that Jesus was passing by, he frantically and boldly begins to call out until Jesus responds to him. Then Bartimaeus jumps up and comes to where Jesus is waiting for him. “What do you want me to do for you”, Jesus asks him. Without delay, Bartimaeus responds with “I want to see.” And then, “Immediately he received his sight and followed Jesus along the road.”
Bartimaeus received more than physical sight that day, he also received spiritual sight which can see the truth in a world of lies and darkness. Jesus still calls out to those who are spiritually blind; who have been living in darkness in their lives. He calls them to come to him for healing, discernment and direction. Some are content to live in the darkness and ignore his call. But to all who respond to his call, he offers spiritual sight. Years ago, before my father passed away, he lost his vision. I still remember expressing my anger at God before him and asking how the Lord could allow this after all he had done for so many in his life. His response has never left my mind, “he looked in my direction, legally blind and said, “son don’t be mad at God, my vision is better than yours.” I knew at that moment; I had some spiritual blindness to deal with in my heart. Friends, if you are struggling with your spiritual vision in these dark challenging days, call out to Jesus! He is still healing the sick, still restoring spiritual sight and still raising the spiritually dead to eternal life.
​Thanks be to God!
Fr. Greg+

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