Thursday of the 8th week in ordinary time
1 Peter 2:2-5.9-12 Mark 10: 46-52
Theme: An invitation
In the 1st reading of today, St. Peter reminds us of who we are and the wonderful love that God continues to show us, by declaring us as his own people. The love of God for humanity cannot be over emphasized, he had to give everything for us to gain salvation. It is on this note that St. Peter is inviting us to live a life that is worthy of the sacrifices that God has made for us all, by been true disciples of Christ. A good way of appreciating what God has done for us and continues to do for us, is by living a life that is worthy of our calling as children of God that we are called to be. Let this awareness from henceforth continue to guide your word and action and allow the love of God to guide your relationship with all those who will cross your path at one time or the other. If we can achieve this, we will be practicing one of the wonderful attributes of Jesus Christ. All those who encountered him at different times went away with something good and positive about him, except those who had their selfish reasons and continued to fight him, because he was always challenging their bad lifestyle.
We are all encouraged today to appreciate the sacrifice God has made for us by keeping our flesh in control, so that it does not lead us astray. This is very important because we are no longer the children of darkness, but rather the children of light and darkness have no place any more in our lives. The more we are conscious of this fact and continue to strive to live a life of the spirit, the better children of God we will become. Try to make this reminder and invitation in today’s 1st reading your own and make honest and sincere effort to make that leap of faith that will bring about a positive transition in your call to discipleship. Never think you cannot do it or that it is not possible, when there is a will, there is always a way. Trust in the grace of God and it will never fail or disappoint all those who trust in it.
In the gospel of Mark, we see how the sight of Bartimaeus was restored by Jesus, because of his faith and persistence. He did not allow the voices of the people rebuking him to stop him from calling out to Jesus, and his effort paid off because Jesus granted his heart desire, and his sight was restored. We have something to learn from his action when we deal with God, he did not give up because people were trying to stop him, and he persisted. These are two wonderful attributes that we all always need in our journey of faith. Never listen to those who try to discourage you, like in the case of Bartimaeus. As you do this may almighty God bless you in the name of the father and of the son and of the holy spirit, Amen. Peace be with you.