October 25, 2015
Thirtieth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Lectionary: 149 (Jerusalem Bible Translation)(NAB Translation)
Sunday Says
Reading 1
Jeremiah 31:7-9
This week’s first reading from the prophet Jeremiah is a unique visual in the Old Testament. We hear of a mixing of the lame and blind with the normal people. At this time, all those that were sick were often separated from the group and seen as unclean, but Jeremiah foretells of their reunion with the group. He also refers to their return as a people from exile.
We see that Pope Francis today, in many ways like Jesus, spends more time with people instead trying to teach them. In many ways, these actions are his main way of teaching as opposed to his words.
Responsorial Psalm
Psalm 126:1-2, 2-3, 4-5, 6
- (3) The Lord has done great things for us; we are filled with joy.
Reading 2
Hebrews 5:1-6
This week’s second reading continues in the letter to the Hebrews, and we hear a comparison of Jesus. He is described as a man, but, then also as perfected as God. The Hebrews were very accustomed to their traditions and sacrifices offered by the high priests at the temple. Here, the writer shows the comparison of Jesus to those high priest, but in a still more perfect way, in which He is capable of making the ultimate sacrifice in atonement for our sins.
Alleluia CF. 2 Timothy 1:10
- Alleluia, alleluia.
Our Savior Jesus Christ destroyed death
and brought life to light through the Gospel.
Gospel
Mark 10:46-52
This week’s Gospel from St. Mark is a remarkable miracle story of Jesus. We hear of the man Bartimaeus being rebuked by the followers for seeking to speak to with Jesus. After much persistence he finally makes it up to Jesus, and Jesus simply asks Bartimaeus how He can help.
There is a memorable line where they say to him “Take courage; get up, Jesus is calling you.”
Batimaus bravely gets up, throws down his cloak, and come before the Master. After asking for sight, Jesus says, “Go your way; your faith has saved you.”
Can the blind man see?
By the grace of God, yes. May we have the same faith to ask Jesus for the gift of sight.
Gospel Meditation from Bishop Vásquez
Reflection question
“Jesus, son of David, have pity on me!” Bartimaeus is persistent in his call and springs up in response to Jesus’ call. How persistent am I in prayer? Prayer is essential to increase our relationship with God. Do I cry out for the Lord’s assistance? How eager am I to accept? How frequently do I allow myself to be God’s means of helping others?
