Today's Thoughts...

Today’s Thoughts: As I reflected on and prayed with today’s gospel I was once again inspired by the enduring faith of Bartimaeus as he asks Jesus for mercy.  Through his perseverance and faith Jesus extended the invitation for Bartimaeus to come and present his case.  What an expression of faith in Jesus from Bartimaeus, and because of his faith he is given the opportunity to see. 
 
Our challenge today might well be to ask ourselves a few questions – When do we enthusiastically and joyfully ask for Jesus’ help?  How often are we blind to the graces that God constantly offers us? 
 
In the first reading from the Book of the Prophet Jeremiah there is a wonderful image for our journey of faith with Jesus – “They departed in tears, but I will console them and guide them; I will lead them to brooks of water, on a level road, so that none shall stumble.” (Jeremiah 31: 9) God is always compassionate and merciful. In the midst of our struggles God is always trying to refresh us by putting us on level ground and helping us not to stumble. However, as Pope Francis tells us over and over again if we seek God’s compassion and mercy we are then asked to bring it to all we meet. If we open ourselves to God’s guidance we are challenged to better use our gifts in service with and for others.
 
Prayer is the place where we like Bartimaeus open ourselves to the presence of God passing by each moment of our life. Prayer is the place that enables us to call out to God and ask to see. Prayer is the place where we strengthen our faith and prepare to follow Jesus. When we fail to take time each day to pray we become blind.  We stumble along in darkness not open to the loving presence of Jesus. Why not pause for a moment of prayer sometime today and let Jesus open your eyes to the presence of God in your life!
 
Have a blessed and joyful Sunday everyone!