Readings for the Thirtieth Sunday in Ordinary Time
On back to back Sundays, we hear Jesus ask, “What do you want me to do for you?” Last week, James and John sought glory; this week, Bartimaeus seeks healing. The same question; two very different requests; two very different needs.
Jesus grants both requests, giving each party what they want, and more—he gives them what they need. The disciples asked for glory, but they needed to learn what it meant to be true servants. Bartimaeus asked for sight, but he needed to be restored to the life of the community and given a role and purpose within it.
In the Gospel, Jesus grants requests, giving each party what they want, and more—he gives them what they need. Share on XHow often have we prayed for one thing, and received what we asked for, though in a form we didn’t expect, and more! Also, how often have we judged others for what they ask for, not fully understanding their deeper need? “I want to get married in this church.” “I need to get my baby baptized, but I don’t have time for too many meetings.” “Can we have this song at my mom’s funeral? It was her favorite.”
As we discern our response to Jesus’s question, “What do you want me to do for you?” let us also look deeper to see how we can respond to the requests of others in ways that will lead them closer to Christ, who knows our every need.
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