In Pastor Tracey Baldeo‘s insightful sermon, “The Unclean and Still Seen,” the congregation was guided through reflections on Isaiah 43:18-19 and Mark 10:46-52. Tracey drew parallels to the phrase “I’m going up!” commonly used during Jesus’ time when people journeyed to Jerusalem. Although geographically headed south, Jerusalem’s mountainous location made the ascent literal.
The sermon emphasized that the miracles in our lives are just a glimpse of what awaits. Focusing on the past was likened to walking backward, hindering the view of the future. Tracey encouraged the congregation to let go of expectations of fairness, acknowledging that the enemy doesn’t play fair.
Using the analogy of protecting history in museums like the Smithsonian, Tracey highlighted the vulnerability of our cherished past to unforeseen events. This notion prompted reflection on the importance of redirecting our focus to God.
The narrative seamlessly transitioned to Mark 10:46-52, illustrating the persistence of a blind beggar seeking Jesus, inspiring the congregation to call on Jesus, be healed, and steadfastly follow Him. The sermon offered a powerful message of growth, urging the congregation to look forward and embrace the journey with God.
Bible Verses:
Isaiah 43:18-19
18 “Forget the former things;
do not dwell on the past.
19 See, I am doing a new thing!
Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?
I am making a way in the wilderness
and streams in the wasteland.
Mark 10:46-52
Blind Bartimaeus Receives His Sight
46 Then they came to Jericho. As Jesus and his disciples, together with a large crowd, were leaving the city, a blind man, Bartimaeus (which means “son of Timaeus”), was sitting by the roadside begging. 47 When he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to shout, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!”
48 Many rebuked him and told him to be quiet, but he shouted all the more, “Son of David, have mercy on me!”
49 Jesus stopped and said, “Call him.”
So they called to the blind man, “Cheer up! On your feet! He’s calling you.” 50 Throwing his cloak aside, he
jumped to his feet and came to Jesus.
51 “What do you want me to do for you?” Jesus asked him.
The blind man said, “Rabbi, I want to see.”
52 “Go,” said Jesus, “your faith has healed you.” Immediately he received his sight and followed Jesus along the road.