Chaplain's Chat

Moama Anglican Grammar – a place where every person matters.

This week I began planning for our Christmas Hamper food drive. As I was looking at posters from other schools, I came across this line, “Jesus sees everyone’s value. So do we.”  I remember thinking yes that is so true. When we look at Jesus’ interactions with people in the Bible he demonstrates this truth over and over again. The story of Blind Bartimaeus is a classic example of this in Mark 10:46-52.

At the end of a hard days’ work Jesus is leaving the city of Jericho. A long commute was ahead as they walked to their lodging in a nearby village. Blind Bartimaeus was sitting on the road begging, a common sight back in those days. When he heard Jesus was passing, he began to shout, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” Jesus reputation as a miracle healer preceded him. This is the moment the disciples probably think, quick get this guy quiet, if Jesus hears him, we are going to get home late again (my paraphrase). But Bartimaeus will not be silenced. Jesus hears, stops and calls him over. When Bart here’s this he throws off his coat and jumps to his feet. He truly believes that Jesus is going to heal him and that is exactly what happens.

Greatness, including leadership, in Jesus’ kingdom is about service of others. Jesus’ disciples couldn’t see this. They were blind to what type of leader Jesus was. It was a blind man who had the faith to see that Jesus would notice him. His statement, ‘Son of David, have mercy on me!’ communicates the depth of his understanding. He knew this was God’s king, the servant king, who we are all called to follow.

At times, each of us can feel that no one sees us. We doubt our importance and think we are overlooked. But not with Jesus! He sees everyone’s value. When we are truly heard, valued and catered for we know it and move towards it.

Our new group of student leaders that were inducted and celebrated today communicated this truth, that everyone matters. It came through in the campaign speeches of all applicants two weeks ago and was reiterated today by those elected as part of their goal. What a great thing that our student leaders can already see their role in serving and valuing others! Even better is that we can all lead like Jesus no matter where we are. Together, with Jesus we can and find a way to show that everyone matters.

Tim Bowles

Chaplain