Week 5 – Lent Series 2025
Lent, Stories | April 16, 2025
Solidarity: Seeking to Listen and Understand
Action that is taken in solidarity finds its origins in listening.
Jesus’ actions and ministry flowed out of relationship and love. When he looked at people he saw their humanity. He sought them out. He sought relationships with them.
During this season of Lent we have been focusing on the theme of solidarity. Jesus exemplified solidarity. He shared humanity with those around him and sought relationship. He moved in empathy, and he sought the welfare of others.
Mark 10:46-52 illustrates beautifully the solidarity Jesus shared with people.
When Bartimaeus, who was blind, heard that Jesus was coming he cried out to him. “Son of David, have mercy on me!” The crowd around him sought to silence him, but Jesus sought him out. Those who called Bartimaeus to be silent were told to call him to Jesus. At this, Bartimaeus was on his feet. He made a bee line for Jesus.
Jesus asked Bartimaeus, “What do you want me to do for you?” The man was clearly blind. When Jesus looked at Bartimaeus he saw his humanity. He didn’t define Bartimaeus by his disability or make assumptions about him. He sought Bartimaeus and what he wanted for his life. It is in response to Bartimaeus’ words “Rabbi, I want to see.” that Jesus restores his sight.
CBM Australia leans into solidarity with people with disabilities who live in poverty. Jesus shows us that solidarity seeks out people and relationships. It is seeking to understand people and what they want for their lives before acting.
CBM seeks to deeply listen to people with disabilities who live in poverty. To understand what they want: their hopes, desires and griefs. It is in response to this listening and seeking to understand that action in solidarity can be truly effective in supporting the quality of life of people with disabilities.
Are there people in your life that you assist or support?
Do you actively listen to understand how best you can support them?
Let’s pray,
Dear Lord Jesus, we are amazed at your love. Your true, holistic and encompassing love. Fill us with your love, that we may seek relationship. May we seek to understand people before helping, amen.
Read more
- Week 1 – Lent Series 2025
- Week 2 – Lent Series 2025
- Week 3 – Lent Series 2025
- Week 4 – Lent Series 2025
- Week 5 – Lent Series 2025
- Week 6 – Lent Series 2025
https://www.cbm.org.au/stories/week-5-lent-series-2025
Related Stories
Week 7 – Lent Series 2025
A solidarity of love, relationship and sacrifice. A solidarity that is profound and astounding. As we draw near to Good Friday, we remember Jesus’ love and...
Week 6 – Lent Series 2025
Solidarity Leads to Partnership Partnership with people with disabilities is working alongside them to build an inclusive and accessible world. CBM Australia works to improve the...
Week 4 – Lent Series 2025
Solidarity over a meal Genuine fellowship leads to solidarity. Jesus’ vision for community is marked by solidarity. When it comes to community, Jesus envisions people creating...