We know His Name

They came to Jericho. As Jesus and his disciples and a large crowd were leaving Jericho, Bartimaeus son of Timaeus, a blind beggar, was sitting by the roadside. When he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to shout out and say, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” Many sternly ordered him to be quiet, but he cried out even more loudly, “Son of David, have mercy on me!” Jesus stood still and said, “Call him here.” And they called the blind man, saying to him, “Take heart; get up, he is calling you.” So throwing off his cloak, he sprang up and came to Jesus. 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.” Jesus said to him, “Go; your faith has made you well.” Immediately he regained his sight and followed him on the way. Mark 10:46-52 

Yesterday, I had the joy of baptizing a little boy whose grandparents live in Cape May year round. Our granddaughter helped by ringing the bell and holding my book during the baptism. It was a wonderful moment, one that they will always remember. Afterwards, they all went to the beach, ate cake, and watched the children play. Simple joys for a little one named Julius after his long departed great grandfather.

In our Gospel we find Jesus in Jericho, being shouted at by a blind beggar. Many of Jesus' miracles were done for unnamed folks. But we know the blind man by name, Bartimaeus. Why we know is not important. It is important that we are each none, by our name, and not only by our need. We are invited to see God's love for us a personal and knowing, love that cares for us in the darkest moments as well as in the wondreful times.

Today, I ask God to help me embrace the love given, personal, generous and tender. May we care for the named and unnamed with that kind of love, that seeks to uplift and heal every individual in every kind of circumstnace.