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October 23-24, 2021

In this week's Gospel, a blind man named Bartimaeus heard that Jesus was coming by the road where he was begging people for help and he began to cry out and say, "Jesus, son of David, have pity on me." (Mark 10:47) These words from Bartimaeus, the blind man, present us with the perfect prayer for a few reasons.

First, this prayer reveals the deep humility of Bartimaeus. By praying this prayer, Bartimaeus expresses the fact that he knew Jesus was the source of what he needed and that he was unable to help himself. Bartimaeus knew that he was weak, but that Jesus was perfect strength. Thus, Bartimaeus humbly turned to Jesus in his need, recognizing Him as the source.

Second, it is a prayer that cries for "pity." Pity is the feeling of sorrow and compassion caused by the suffering of others. Pity is mercy and is also the form of love given to one by another who has no need of giving it. In this prayer, Bartimaeus asks the allpowerful Lord to show him kindness and mercy, even though he is unworthy of such a gift. This prayer reveals the fact that Bartimaeus knew he was undeserving of help from our Lord, but he cried out for it anyway in the hope that Jesus would help. And, indeed, He did.

Third, this prayer reveals a certain and deep passion. It is not just a request for God's help; rather, it is a cry for help. It's an opening up of one's soul to God, without concern of displaying one's own weaknesses or worry that others will witness it or what they'll think. This shows the depth of the blind man's prayer.

Reflect, today, upon these three lessons from Bartimaeus' short prayer. We must be humble, beg for mercy, and do so with deep passion and longing. Praying this way will most certainly dispose us to the grace and mercy of God.

Lord, Jesus, have pity on me though I am unworthy, Jesus, I trust in You.

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