The View From Bolton Street

On Missionaries, Martyrs and us

“Son of David have mercy on me!”

In the Gospel this week we have the story of Blind Bartimaeus, who calls out quietly first and then loudly to Jesus, asking for help.

Sometimes all we have to do is ask. This morning I asked if there were churches that could house refugees, and three churches reached out immediately.

You all similarly have been responsive to requests for needs since I have been here, and long before. All we have to do is ask. Whether it is meals, or clothes, or money, or a place to stay, you all are a thoughtful and caring and generous bunch.

Would you believe that God is the same way? That The Divine is even more generous, compassionate, caring and responsive? All we have to do is ask.

When you are feeling overwhelmed, in crisis, stressed and not sure what to do, prayer can seem like a waste of time. I’ve got real problems! But prayer should be not just our first response, but also a constant refrain.

But what do we pray?

I love the example of Bartimaeus because his prayer is so simple: “my teacher let me see again.” That’s it! That simple. If we are going to pray to God, we need to be clear with God so we can be clear with ourselves. Sometimes, we don’t know WHAT we need!

Which is why Bartimaeus’ prayer is so great: let me see again.

When we are confused and flustered, and don’t know what to do next, a prayer for vision seems highly appropriate. “Teacher let me see…” what is next, let me see what you have in store for me, let me see the road ahead.

When things are dark and confusing, spending time in prayer and reflection may seem like a waste of time, or even scary. But it can make all the difference.

Sometimes… all you have to do is ask.