St Giles’ Cathedral, Edinburgh

Midweek Devotion 1st June 2023

Led by Rev Sam Nwokoro

But the eyes of the Lord are on those who fear him,
    on those whose hope is in his unfailing love.

(Ps. 33: 18)

Scripture Reading (Mark 10: 46-52)

Then they came to Jericho. As Jesus and his disciples, together with a large crowd, were leaving the city, a blind man, Bartimaeus (which means “son of Timaeus”), was sitting by the roadside begging. When he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to shout, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” Many rebuked him and told him to be quiet, but he shouted all the more, “Son of David, have mercy on me!” Jesus stopped and said, “Call him.” So they called to the blind man, “Cheer up! On your feet! He’s calling you.” Throwing his cloak aside, he jumped to his feet and came to Jesus. What do you want me to do for you?” Jesus asked him. The blind man said, “Rabbi, I want to see.” “Go,” said Jesus, “your faith has healed you.” Immediately he received his sight and followed Jesus along the road.

Reflection

‘What do you want me to do for you?’ asked Jesus. ‘Rabbi, I want to see,’ Bartimaeus replied. This conversation could not be more straightforward. It is a very brief exchange where the questioner, who also has the power to make a difference, asks the right question. In response, the one who is questioned, having a clear understanding of what he needs, gives the right answer. Meaningful communication is complete and transformative action is immanent whenever the right question by the right person meets the right answer by the right person.  

In Christ Jesus, God comes to humankind with the right question. A question asking if we would be willing to believe and receive the gift that is beyond us: the gift of unconditional love. By faith and trust, we respond with a yearning for healing and wholeness for ourselves, for our world and all of creation. As a people of faith in the inquiring God, every day is an opportunity to experience the spark of transformation inherent in saying yes to God. The God who is at work in and around us, bringing healing and wholeness to all.

Let us pray,

Prayer

Asking God,

You know what we need and what is best for us.

But you never force upon us your gift.

Instead, you come to us asking if we would like to receive.

We respond to you today by faith with a big ‘Yes!’

‘Yes!’ to your love.

‘Yes!’ to your mystery.

‘Yes!’ to your healing.

And ‘Yes!’ to all that you wish to do through us for the blessing of others.

Amen!

Blessing

The Lord bless you and keep you.

The Lord make his face of countenance to shine upon you

May God give you his peace now and forever.

Amen.

Organ Music

Dieterich Buxtehude Komm, heiliger Geist, Herre Gott