Embracing Vulnerability in Widowhoodනියැදිය

Jesus and his disciples went to Jericho. And as they were leaving, they were followed by a large crowd. A blind beggar by the name of Bartimaeus son of Timaeus was sitting beside the road. When he heard that it was Jesus from Nazareth, he shouted, “Jesus, Son of David, have pity on me!” Many people told the man to stop, but he shouted even louder, “Son of David, have pity on me!” Jesus stopped and said, “Call him over!” They called out to the blind man and said, “Don't be afraid! Come on! He is calling for you.” The man threw off his coat as he jumped up and ran to Jesus. Jesus asked, “What do you want me to do for you?” The blind man answered, “Master, I want to see!” Jesus told him, “Go. Your eyes are healed because of your faith.” At once the man could see, and he went down the road with Jesus.

Mark 10:46-52 (CEVDCI)

Losing a spouse can be an incredibly difficult and painful experience, and as widows, it can leave us feeling vulnerable in a number of ways:

1. FINANCIAL VULNERABILITY: Many widows experience financial hardship after the loss of a spouse. This can be due to the loss of our spouse's income, increased medical expenses, and other unexpected costs. Some may also struggle to navigate complex financial decisions.
2. EMOTIONAL VULNERABILITY: Grief and loss can take a significant toll on our emotional well-being, and we may sometimes feel vulnerable and alone as we navigate these complex feelings of sadness, anger, and loneliness. Sometimes it feels impossible to understand our emotions ourselves, let alone explain them to others.
3. SOCIAL VULNERABILITY: It can feel difficult to navigate the social world without our spouse, especially for the first year or so after the loss. It can feel like something is missing at events and social gatherings.
4. PHYSICAL VULNERABILITY: Losing a spouse can also leave us feeling physically vulnerable. We may struggle to manage daily tasks and chores on our own. Some may also feel unsafe or fearful of living alone.

The story of Bartimaeus is significant because it demonstrates Jesus' compassion for those who were marginalized and vulnerable. Bartimaeus was a blind beggar, apparently on his own, forced to survive day-to-day. But when others passed over him, Jesus did not turn a blind eye to him, instead, He stopped and listened to his cries for help and offered healing and hope. In the same way, God does not turn a blind eye to anyone who calls out to Him for help.

This story is also a reminder that God is moved by our faith. Bartimaeus had faith that Jesus could heal him, and his faith was rewarded. As we face our own struggles and vulnerabilities, we too can have faith that Jesus will take care of us and provide for our needs. The story of Jesus healing Bartimaeus is a powerful reminder of His compassion for the vulnerable and the importance of having faith in God’s ability to provide for our needs.

CHALLENGE:

When you reflect on the above areas of vulnerability, which one resonates most with you (it is okay if there is more than one)? Have you spent time in prayer sharing with God these areas of vulnerability? If not, why? Have you shared these areas with others God has put in your life? If not, why? Today, spend some time praying over these areas of vulnerability and share them with our Heavenly Father.