Sunday 25 October – 30th Ordinary Sunday – a message offered by Reverend Terry Alve
Job 42:1-17; Psalm 34:1-8; Hebrews 7:23-28; Mark 10:46-52
The Provision of God
Last Sunday afternoon in Messy Church we thought about foot washing and King Jesus who washed our feet, even though this was a lowly task usually preserved for slaves, servants and the youngest present. Jesus’ example challenges us to love one another as He has loves us. He provides us with a very practical demonstration of how to do faith.
In the same way, today’s Scripture readings confront us with a God who humbles us with goodness and readiness to respond to our needs and dilemmas with care, in very relevant and practical ways.
One of my devotions during the week posed the question,
“How would you feel and respond if Jesus actually washed your feet?” Figuratively or literally?
This q. has been variously posed in our readings today as we consider in them:
Job, David, Jesus and Bartimaeus
- Job 42 – 5 I had heard of you by the hearing of the ear,
but now my eye sees you;Job had known that God is faithful; now as the tide turns and his suffering comes to an end, he marvels that head knowledge has now become heart knowledge. He has come face to face with the God who delights to bless and serve His children…. - King David Ps 34 – 7 The angel of theLord encamps
around those who fear him, and delivers them.David is rescued from Abimelech who wished him harm. David has profound sense of God actually rescuing him from an enemy, yet again! - Blind Bartimaeus Mark 10 – 51 Then Jesus said to him, ‘What do you want me to do for you?’ The blind man said to him, ‘My teacher, let me see again.’52 Jesus said to him, ‘Go; your faith has made you well.’ Immediately he regained his sight and followed him on the way.Jesus stands in stark contrast with those who would shoo Bartimaeus away as a very unimportant person, unworthy of Jesus’ attention. Jesus hears his cry of anguish and calls him out and commends his faith, so that his sight is restored.
In the story of Bartimaeus Jesus demonstrates how we might love our neighbour; especially our ‘poor’ neighbour. He challenges us to:
– listen to and support our neighbour;
– show faith with them;
– be blessed, even healed, as they receive God’s blessing!
Taste and see that the Lord is good seems to be what Jesus is saying here to Bartimaeus.
Some of us did that last week when we responded during our healing focus. Our questions today might be as we reflect,
- What happened when I responded to Jesus?
- How was my faith moved, been drawn out?
- What new awareness/s did I have?
- Is there anything I want to thank God for as a result?
Without wanting to put anyone on the spot, there is an opportunity now to share the blessing and encouragement. Is there anyone who would like to?
SPACE FOR RESPONSE FROM MEMBERS OF THE CONGREGATION
Thank you if you spoke out about your experience and awareness.
Thank you for reflecting silently.
As we conclude, hear Jesus ask you the same question that he asks Bartimaeus, “What do you want me to do for you?” I encourage you to respond freely and honestly, bringing to him whatever you most want and need today.
How does Jesus respond to your request?
Let us conclude with a prayer for understanding and healing… for God’s Provision:
Prayer for Understanding and Healing – The Provision of God
May I come to Understand
that blessings are everywhere,
that my attitude will effect outcomes,
that challenges are often gifts in disguise.
May I come to Trust like Job
that most things can get better, with time,
that my instincts & gut feelings have value,
that a positive attitude makes things go smoother.
May I come to See like David
that I have many skills & talents I can use,
that I am a positive influence on many people,
that there are those around me who wish me well.
May I come to Value like Bartimaeus
that today is a blessing to be enjoyed,
that each person is unique & important,
that each moment of my life has meaning.
May I come to a Faith
that takes me beyond human understanding,
that enables me to hold myself with loving acceptance,
that is sourced in the healing agape of Jesus my Saviour.
Amen.