Homily: Eighth Thursday of Ordinary Time

Eighth Thursday of Ordinary Time (Mark 10:46-52) “Witnessing for Christ”

Most of the people that Jesus cures in the Gospels are not named. What does it mean when one is given a name. Usually, it is a sign that the person is known in the Christian community.

Another example of this would be Lazarus, the man Jesus resuscitated in the Gospel of John. Lazarus had an extraordinary story to tell. Jesus brought him out of the grave. His witness probably led many people to put their faith in Jesus as their Lord and savior.

We can imagine Bartimaeus sharing his story throughout his life with other people as they inquired about Jesus. How impressive it would be for someone to speak of how they were blind, and Jesus cured them.

We have people today who have turned their life around because they have had some minor miracles occur in their life. For some it might have been a health scare. Perhaps they or their family members prayed for healing, and it occurred. For others it may be some spiritual crisis that they have worked through. Maybe they entrusted their life to Christ, and they have never been the same.

We can keep such stories to ourselves, or we can share them with other people. This is called witnessing. In some Christian denomination there is a part of their Sunday worship that allows for witnessing. There is kind of an open mike where people can share how Christ has helped them in their life. As Catholics this sounds like a strange thing to include in a Sunday service, yet what could be more inspirational.

How are we about sharing life experiences that are extraordinary. Are there moments when we feel God has acted in a very concrete way? Bartimaeus followed Jeus up the road, glorifying and praising God for his sight. Could we share our faith story with others?

Reflection Questions:

1.    Why do I believe in Jesus as my savior? Could I share that with others?

2.    What am I blind to? Do I recognize God working in my life?

Dear Parishioners,

            The first weekend of June we will be having a Stewardship Sunday. Stewardship is not all about money, but it is also about sharing one’s time and abilities. Our parish needs many volunteers to function.

            We need liturgical ministers. We must have readers and Eucharistic ministers. We also need people to assist with funerals. We need people to serve, greet and serve funeral dinners. Could you help? Please pray about this. Jesus is calling. Can you respond?

            May Our Lady of Peace pray for us,

            Fr. Mark