Throughout the gospels various questions are put on the lips of Jesus. They include, “What are you looking for?” and “Who do you say that I am?” In today’s gospel we hear another one: “What do you want me to do for you?” The question is asked of Bartimaeus, who is blind. At first glance it would seem that the response would be quite obvious. Bartimaeus wants to be able to physically see again. And indeed Jesus heals him of his physical blindness.
But there is another level of meaning happening in this encounter. The physical sight granted to Bartimaeus symbolizes the insight necessary for any follower of Christ. Jesus says, “Go your way, your faith has saved you.” The gift of faith helps all of us to “see” and experience the healing and saving way that Christ is toward us all the time. Imagine that Christ is asking you this important question. In the context of faith, how would you respond?