Prayer & Reflection
Reflection
Last Sunday’s Gospel reading (Mark 10:46-52) tells of Jesus giving sight to the blind man, Bartimaeus, who encounters Jesus as he passes through Jericho. Despite the crowd’s attempts to silence him, Bartimaeus persistently cries out for help, showing his faith and desperation. When Jesus calls him, Bartimaeus throws aside his cloak and approaches, expressing his desire to regain his sight. Jesus heals him, and Bartimaeus immediately follows Jesus, praising God.
This week’s Gospel (Mark 12:28-34) centres on a wise scribe asking Jesus which commandment is the greatest. Jesus responds by summarising the law into two key commandments: to love God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength, and to love your neighbour as yourself. The scribe recognises the wisdom of this answer, and Jesus affirms him, highlighting that he is not far from the kingdom of God.
Although these passages may seem distinct, a significant connection they share is the different aspects of the journey of faith that they illustrate. Bartimaeus’s journey involves physical and spiritual healing, leading to discipleship. The scribe’s journey entails intellectual and spiritual engagement, bringing him closer to understanding God’s will. Both passages highlight that faith can take various forms, ultimately leading to a deeper understanding and relationship with God.
Prayer
Heavenly Father,
We come before you with grateful hearts, inspired by the faith of Bartimaeus and the wisdom of the scribe. Just as Bartimaeus cried out to you in his need, help us to recognise our own needs and the needs of those around us. Grant us the courage to speak up and seek your guidance in our lives and in our community.
Lord, teach us to love you with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength. May our love for you inspire us to love our neighbours as ourselves. Help us to see each person in our school community as valuable and deserving of kindness and respect.
As we navigate our studies and relationships, remind us to be persistent in our faith and compassionate in our actions. May we create an environment where everyone feels welcomed, valued, and supported.
Bless our teachers, staff, and fellow students. Give us the strength to encourage one another, to celebrate our successes, and to uplift each other in times of struggle.
Lord, may our school be a reflection of your love, where understanding and acceptance thrive. Help us to grow closer to you and to each other as we journey together in learning, faith, and life.
In your holy name, we pray.
Amen.
Michael Chesser
Director of Catholic Mission & Mercy Ethos