In today’s Gospel, Jesus encounters Bartimaeus, and we see how this encounter leads to healing and new life. The encounter is a model of mission:

• First, Jesus sees / hears Bartimeus and understands his life and needs.
• Jesus has compassion for Bartimeus. Compassion in the sense he shares in his suffering and is willing to become involved and help in his struggles and difficulties
• Finally, out of this Compassion comes new life and healing, new joy and new hope.

In the sacrifice of the cross, where the mission of Jesus is fully accomplished, God shows us that his love is for each and every one of us. He asks us to be personally willing to be sent, because he himself is Love, love that is always “on mission” always reaching out in order to give life.