The WORD in other words (2010) by Father Roberto Ibay, SVD – DWHS, Sanchez Mira, Cagayan
Thursday 8th Week in Ordinary Time
Our sense of sight is a blessing. Much of our plans, conversations, and dreams are shaped by what we see. Today, many young people share with me what they watch on television or the internet — images and lifestyles that influence their aspirations. Truly, in our time, what we see often matters more than what we hear or read.
In the Gospel, Jesus sees Bartimaeus, the blind beggar, and affirms His mission: to seek out the marginalized, to heal, and to include them. Bartimaeus regains his sight, but more importantly, he begins to see life from the perspective of Jesus. To see, then, is not only physical vision but spiritual insight — recognizing God’s presence and His call.
Bartimaeus teaches us humility. He cries out: “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” (Mark 10:47). He acknowledges his limitation and seeks help. In contrast, our culture often prizes self-reliance to the point of isolation. True independence, however, leads to interdependence — sharing and receiving support. To see is to admit our need for God and for one another.
Bartimaeus’ neighbors scolded him and told him to be silent (Mark 10:48). They were close to Jesus physically but blind to His presence in Bartimaeus. This is contemporary blindness: indifference to the suffering of others. To see is to recognize the image of God in every person we encounter.
God’s will is not abstract; it is found in daily life. Jesus warns against those who say “Lord, Lord” but do not do the Father’s will (Matthew 7:21). To see is to discern what God asks of us in concrete situations — to act with compassion, justice, and mercy.
Finally, to see is to understand. Jesus came close to Bartimaeus, listened, and asked: “What do you want me to do for you?” (Mark 10:51). Empathy and compassion open our eyes to others’ realities. Understanding begins when we step into their world, listen, and dialogue.
Modern blindness is real — indifference, selfishness, and lack of compassion. But like Bartimaeus, we can cry out in faith: “Lord, help us to see again.” May our eyes be opened to God’s presence, to His will, and to the dignity of every person.
