The Gospel by Mark today spoke to me about achieving a goal. The trajectory that the blind Bartimaeus (son of Timaeus) took was exemplary. The level of detail about the man and his father struck me. The full family name was given so people could verify the “receipts” in future years and learn more about them and legitimize the miracle. Also, their inclusion in the Bible was meant to leave their mark for eternity.
Listed below is the path along the trajectory to Bartimaeus’ healing. Spoiler alert…the healing miracle worked!
Reaching Out to an Expert
Knowing who to contact about a certain issue is almost as important as the issue itself. Bartimaeus had heard of Jesus, knew he was on a walk through his town, knew about the miracles that were performed, and He was the only hope for the affliction. Expert found.
Reaching Out Again
Bartimaeus shouted out to the Lord. But the disciples of Jesus and others around told him to stand down, be quiet, and not to bother the Rabbi. The crowd encouraged him to be quiet and to stop his pleas. But he kept on calling, despite the peer pressure. Sometimes you need to ask for help more than once.
Clearly Asking
Bartimaeus continued the trajectory to his goal by knowing what to ask for. He knew his goal: to gain his sight. “I want to see.” Not overly complicated, but to the point of what he wanted. If you do not know what to ask or pray for, your attainment of the goal could be compromised. (Another reflection would cover “praying for God’s will to be done.”)
Achieved
Not surprisingly, the healing miracle happened, and Bible readers have become familiar with the story over the past two thousand years. He found an expert, diligently asked for help despite detractors, was clear about what he was asking for, and achieved the goal.
What’s Next?
We do not know what happened to Bartimaeus after the story, but I suspect his next mission was to spread the good news of Jesus Christ to his local towns and villages. What a great testimonial to join the Faith, not just because of the healing miracle, but for all the other remarkable things to come, like reaching Heaven once Jesus had risen for us.
Do you know what you would pray for if you only had one prayer left?
[Readings: 1 Peter 2:2-5, 9-12;Mark 10:46-52]
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Great reflection and great last question. My last prayer would be to hear Jesus at my passing say: “welcome home faithful servant.”
Beautiful words. Thank you.
We pray to have the grace to remain focused on the path along the trajectory of our goal.
Nice reflection✅.
God bless you padre 🙏