From The Bishop

Two weeks ago the Sunday Readings focused on truth (Jesus revealed what a man must do to inherit eternal life.) The Readings for the 30th Sunday of Ordinary Time focus on mercy. From a theological perspective, the two are inseparable. In St. Mark’s Gospel we see Bartimaeus, a blind beggar, cry out to the Lord, “Son of David have mercy on me!” We are told that initially the crowd is stern with Bartimaeus and tells him to be quiet; however, after the Lord calls him they become much more encouraging. Bartimaeus “sprang up” and went to the Lord who told him “your faith has made you well.” In the First Reading, the Prophet Jeremiah offers words of encouragement to the people of Israel who sinned and are now facing exile at the hands of an invading force. In the Second Reading from Hebrews we are reminded that all priests are to be gentle with those who sin because they too are sinners. The Readings offer a simple message. Like Bartimaeus, we are called to seek God’s mercy, especially through the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Like the crowd in the Gospel, we should encourage many to “spring up” and come to Jesus and never discourage others by our actions. And finally, those who are ordained should be instruments of mercy. As followers of Jesus may we always promote mercy and truth.