The Fig Tree

Jesus told His disciples a parable. “Consider the fig tree and all the other trees. When their buds burst open, you see for yourselves and know that summer is now near; in the same way, when you see these things happening, know that the Kingdom of God is near. Amen, I say to you, this generation will not pass away until all these things have taken place. Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will not pass away.”

Reflection

Jesus continued with His prophecies of persecutions and destructions of the holy city and temple of Jerusalem. He used nature to teach His disciples to discern the timeliness of all that were to come and of His return to Israel. The fig trees were used many times in the Old and New testaments text as symbols in the religious history of Israel and its people. The agricultural Jews could identify with the analogies as they were familiar with the common fig trees; for its fruits were prized for its nutritional value. Unlike other trees, the unusual fig trees bore its fruit first before its leaves twice a year, in early spring and autumn. Therefore, the coming of summer could be discerned when their leaves sprouted as they would after the spring harvest. Jesus forewarned His disciples that whatever He had prophesied would come to pass one day.

Corporate Leadership

Research shows that one of the top reasons for people to leave their jobs is because of bad working relationship with their colleagues and bosses. Seldom, a person admits that it’s due to bad working relationship with his colleagues. Yet, if the staff does not realise that it could be due to his attitude that is causing friction with others, he could repeat it in his next working place. Jesus used the growth of a fig tree through the seasons of the year to illustrate the patterns of life. While people may change, the patterns of life do not. Just as many things of the world may change, Jesus’ Words are everlasting. A good leader also observes a pattern of behaviour of his staff. A staff with a bad attitude will eventually cause friction in relationships. Hence a good leader immediately addresses it before it is too late. – XW

Family Leadership

There is a natural cycle in nature and they follow a consistent pattern in life. Jesus taught His disciples to predict the signs of the times by looking at the signs of nature. Likewise, psychologists like Eric Erikson observe that people also follow growth patterns in life. Children experience their greatest growth from baby to 6 years old. It is in these crucial years that their brains, abilities, character qualities, habits, inclinations and confidence are developed. A certain religious once said, give me a child for six years and he or she will remain in the faith for life. The wise parents will invest their resources and energy in these life defining years for their children. Failure to take charge of these important times, parents will see their children entering the next phase of seven to twelve years with much tears and repair to be done. – XW

The Second Coming

Jesus said to His disciples: “When you see Jerusalem surrounded by armies, know that its desolation is at hand. Then those in Judea must flee to the mountains. Let those within the city escape from it, and let those in the countryside not enter the city, for these days are the time of punishment when all the Scriptures are fulfilled. Woe to pregnant women and nursing mothers in those days, for a terrible calamity will come upon the earth and a wrathful judgment upon this people. They will fall by the edge of the sword and be taken as captives to all the Gentiles; and Jerusalem will be trampled underfoot by the Gentiles until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled. “There will be signs in the sun, the moon, and the stars, and on earth nations will be in dismay, perplexed by the roaring of the sea and the waves. People will die of fright in anticipation of what is coming upon the world, for the powers of the heavens will be shaken. And then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. But when these signs begin to happen, stand erect and raise your heads because your redemption is at hand.”

Reflection

Jesus came into Jerusalem at a time when there were many factions within the Jewish society. Political groups were formed and they hated each other as much as they hated the Roman occupiers. When the Romans attacked Jerusalem, the Jews were not united and could not defend the city effectively against the Roman siege. In AD 70, Jerusalem was completely destroyed after the Romans surrounded it, starved the defenders and the dwellers, and conquered it. This was foretold by Jesus because He saw the Jews fighting among themselves. Even though He had His followers, He did not come into the city as another political party. On the other hand, He brought the message of forgiveness, love and peace. Hence, He assured His followers that they should “stand erect and raise their heads” While others were in panic, they are at peace because after the war, His Kingdom would be established.

Corporate Leadership

In the corporate world where a large group of people work together, it is natural to form cliques. People who like each other tend to talk more to each other; people who want exclusivity form an elite club; people who have similar hobbies form clubs and so on. While forming groups could be a healthy activity, it may disunite the company as a whole when people jostle for power at the expense of others. Jesus encountered this situation during His time. Instead of working harmoniously with each other, they were fighting against each other. When people are disunited, they will fall. Likewise, a good leader can promote special interest groups in the spirit of innovation, healthy lifestyle, self-help skills and so on. However, such groups must also be reminded not to promote self-interest, self-glory or politics. On the contrary, such groups should promote togetherness and unity. – XW

Family Leadership

Parents have to handle quarrelsome children all their lives. Children may quarrel over a toy, the television remote control or a favourite chair. This is part of growing up where they learn to give and take. The important thing is to make up once they have cooled down. Depending on their ages, parents could take them out to the playground, have a special meal or movies where they can enjoy. At the appropriate time, point out the fun they have together. When they grow up, they realise that members of their family will always be there for them through good times and bad. Trey Parker and Matt Stone, creators of the television series, South Park, said, “I think people that have a brother or sister don’t realize how lucky they are. Sure, they fight a lot, but to know that there’s always somebody there, somebody that’s family.” – XW

Wisdom In Speaking

Jesus said to the crowd: “They will seize and persecute you, they will hand you over to the synagogues and to prisons, and they will have you led before kings and governors because of My name. It will lead to your giving testimony. Remember, you are not to prepare your defence beforehand, for I myself shall give you a wisdom in speaking that all your adversaries will be powerless to resist or refute. You will even be handed over by parents, brothers, relatives, and friends, and they will put some of you to death. You will be hated by all because of My name, but not a hair on your head will be destroyed. By your perseverance you will secure your lives.”

Reflection

Jesus continued His prophecies of events that would occur right up to the destruction of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem. Jesus warned His disciples of the great persecutions ahead after His own persecution and death. The warnings that Jesus gave was grave and bleak. Not only would they have to defend the message of the Good News in high places, they would have to face betrayal and hatred from their loved ones. Some may even die for their faith. As such, the word witness in Greek meant martyr. However, Jesus encouraged them to continue on His account amidst opposition and persecution. He told them not to fear and gave the assurance that God would give them sufficient grace, strength, wisdom and knowledge against the most intimidating enemies. Should they endure to the end, Jesus promised they would inherit everlasting life – not a hair of your head will perish.

Corporate Leadership

It is always easy to accuse someone because the person being accused becomes defensive and feels that the burden of proof is on him. On the other hand, it is difficult to defend a belief or principle when others are against it. Worse, friends and colleagues could disagree and suddenly, there is no one else to depend on. Jesus warned His disciples about the times when they will be tested on their beliefs. However, if they stand firm, Jesus assured them that He would provide the inspiration to speak against their accusers. Likewise, a good leader’s thoughts and actions are based on good character qualities. Even when he is accused because of some misunderstanding, he stands firm and defends himself based on the beliefs he holds dear. When people see that he is able to stand the heat and rise unscathed, they will be inspired to follow him. – XW

Family Leadership

The journey through life is always fraught with the unknown. Jesus knew the perilous future of His disciples and prepared them of what was to come. Not only did He warn them of the tasks ahead, He also encouraged and gave them assurance and help. It is the case of forewarned meant forearmed. Likewise, parents can warn their children of the many schooling days ahead. Coping with school work, major exams, teacher’s expectations, disappointments and bullies are but some of the challenges they will face. Like Jesus, parents can give them assurance of assistance and support so that children know they are guided all the way in their school life. With parents’ love and nurturing, reaching the education goals can be more of an exciting challenge than a grind. At the same time, parents can promise that with a good education, children can experience personal fulfillment with more choices in life– XW

Do Not Be Terrified

While some people were speaking about how the temple was adorned with costly stones and votive offerings, Jesus said, “All that you see here – the days will come when there will not be left a stone upon another stone that will not be thrown down.” Then they asked Him, “Teacher, when will this happen? And what sign will there be when all these things are about to happen?” He answered, “See that you not be deceived, for many will come in My name, saying, ‘I am he,’ and ‘The time has come.’ Do not follow them! When you hear of wars and insurrections, do not be terrified; for such things must happen first, but it will not immediately be the end.” Then He said to them, “Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be powerful earthquakes, famines, and plagues from place to place; and awesome sights and mighty signs will come from the sky.”

Reflection

The building of this glorious Holy temple was a crowning achievement of King Solomon’s reign. It was meant to be a permanent resting place for the Ark containing the Ten Commandments, a dedication from King David, Solomon’s father. The Jews took great pride in their beautiful and majestic temple, a marvel of the ancient world. To their anguish, Jesus foretold its total destruction, not one stone will be left on another. This desecration by the Romans was a judgment for rejecting the Good News of Jesus and the kingdom of God. The disciples sought Jesus for a sign in advance when this would occur. Jesus warned them of the turmoil that would occur first, followed by the many false prophets with their false proclamation of the end of the world. However, the ultimate signs of judgment would be wars, earthquakes, famines, diseases, disasters and supernatural signs from heaven.

Corporate Leadership

People can be taken in by the corporate image projected by the company. The company may have an executive dress code to project professionalism; it may have a glittering signboard to catch the public’s eye; it may have a grand entrance to project wealth and so on. However, all the outward appearance counts for nothing if the people within the company fight each other. Jesus gave the ominous warning of the end times when He saw that the Jews were more concerned with the majestic look of the Temple. What was more important was their proper worship of God in the temple. Likewise, a good leader, while maintaining a decent appearance, has to be decent within also. Having a good impression is only the start. If he does not behave properly, there can be a backlash. Once the damage is done, it is hard to recover after that. – XW

Family Leadership

Like the glorious holy temple of Jerusalem, a truly marvellous work of art, some parents too have the good fortune of having equally marvellous children. These children seem to have everything. They do everything right; they have good disposition; they excel in their studies and recreational activities. However, parents must be aware that successful children who have it good may develop a perfectionist streak. Like the Jews who were devastated by the prophecy of the destruction of the temple, these children could be devastated by any hint of failure. Such children are known to take their own lives over small setbacks in life. Parents can prepare their overachieving children that failure in life is inevitable, one way or another; but failure can be good teachers and strengthens one’s character and resolve. Parents can give examples of people who overcame failure to help remove the sting children may feel. – XW

Two Small Coins

When Jesus looked up He saw some wealthy people putting their offerings into the treasury and He noticed a poor widow putting in two small coins. He said, “I tell you truly, this poor widow put in more than all the rest; for those others have all made offerings from their surplus wealth, but she, from her poverty, has offered her whole livelihood.”

Reflection

While still preaching at the temple, Jesus was quick to observe the activities going on in the temple. Jesus saw many rich people offering their tithes but He singled out a poor widow who gave two insignificant small copper coins. The poor widow could have kept one of her coins for her survival, but instead she practically gave away her whole living for the love and reverence for God. In contrast with those who gave greater amounts, Jesus acknowledged the widow for her generosity in giving all she had. This lesson of sincerity and humility provided a striking contrast to the preceding incident when Jesus denounced the pride and pretentiousness of the scribes. The value of the gift was not how much but rather what it cost the giver. The absence of material possession and the dependence on God was the blessedness expressed in the Beatitude, happy are the poor.

Corporate Leadership

Some people in the office are always aware whenever the boss is around. When that happens, they are full of activities. Most of the time, they do the nominal amount of work. It is as though they conserve their energy to put on a show for the boss. When Jesus saw the widow put in the two coins, He pointed out that she gave her all, regardless of what others thought. This was in contrast to the rich who only contributed out of their excesses. Likewise, a good leader is committed to his job. Being committed to the job also includes the team he works with. Even if some of his team members do not put in their share of work, a good leader does his share and more. This way, his staff is able to see that he is fully committed and not when people are watching. – XW

Family Leadership

Many times people admire or marvel at the outward deeds of what others are doing while Jesus sees what is inside and hidden. He gave recognition to the poor widow for He saw the greater value of her sincerity and sacrifices. Parents can easily feel discouraged when they see the children around them who seem to excel in everything they do. Sometimes parents feel inadequate in spurring or encouraging their children to do better especially if their children are already struggling with some of the tasks. However, like Jesus, parents can learn to see the greater value of what is inside and hidden. It is good if parents can notice and appreciate children’s inner qualities. Like the poor widow, children may have given all their best; they may have done other good deeds sincerely. Parents can take comfort in these and give them the due recognition they deserve. – XW

A House of Prayer

Jesus entered the temple area and proceeded to drive out those who were selling things, saying to them, “It is written, My house shall be a house of prayer, but you have made it a den of thieves.” And every day He was teaching in the temple area. The chief priests, the scribes, and the leaders of the people, meanwhile, were seeking to put Him to death, but they could find no way to accomplish their purpose because all the people were hanging on His words.

Reflection

After lamenting its fate at the outskirt of Jerusalem, Jesus entered the holy city. Upon entering, He immediately headed towards the temple. However, what He saw at the temple was not what it was intended for. Swiftly and authoritatively, Jesus took upon Himself to cleanse the temple by driving out the undesirable elements. Exploiting the poor by overcharging the items used for the altar, these merchants and money changers were not only dishonouring God, they were unjust toward their neighbours. Jesus accompanied His actions with words of the prophets, My house will be a house of prayer, Isaiah 56:7 but they made it into a den of robbers, Jeremiah 7:11. His act of judgment was to discipline the people their erring ways and bring them back to right reverence and worship. In spite of opposition from the religious leaders, the people accepted His authority and hung on His words.

Corporate Leadership

A company is usually associated with commerce and finance. People tend to go about their tasks as efficiently as possible without considering that they are people, not zombies. If people treat the workplace as just work, the fabric of relationship breaks down and so will the company eventually. When Jesus entered the temple, He made it clear that this was a place of worship. The temple was meant to be a place where God and His people had a sacred relationship. Yet, this place was abused by people with self-interests. Likewise, a good leader sees the workplace not as a means of earning a living but a place of learning and living with others. It is about discovering new aspects of work and new aspects of relationships that keep the work place alive. A work place is sacred in that building lasting relationship is the real business. – XW

Family Leadership

The activities at the temple were not what the temple was intended for. Jesus was outraged and promptly took action to correct it. Like a temple, a home has its intended function too. A home is sacred for it houses a family to give warmth, comfort, fellowship, security and a sense of belonging. More often than not, there are people who used the privacy of their homes to hide neglect, abuses, out of control behaviours, immorality, violence and rage. These could be committed either by the parents themselves or by their children. However, parents are the gatekeepers and should authoritatively take upon themselves to correct whatever undesirable activities or behaviours in their own home. There are neither dysfunctional parents nor children; only people who have yet to seek help. Parents can engage professional counselling or assistance immediately, for such a home dishonour God and themselves. – XW

Jesus Wept

As Jesus drew near Jerusalem, He saw the city and wept over it, saying, “If this day you only knew what makes for peace – but now it is hidden from your eyes. For the days are coming upon you when your enemies will raise a palisade against you; they will encircle you and hem you in on all sides. They will smash you to the ground and your children within you, and they will not leave one stone upon another within you because you did not recognize the time of your visitation.”

Reflection

The ministry of Jesus culminated in the holy city of Jerusalem and its temple, which God had chosen as a constant reminder of His presence. Jerusalem came from the word salem which meant peace. God remained faithful to His covenant with Abraham and sent prophets to help and encourage the people as well as to warn of judgment against their unfaithfulness throughout history. Due to stubbornness and pride, the people continued to reject Him, even turning against Jesus their promised Messiah. When Jesus entered Jerusalem, He foresaw terrible judgment of total desolation and destruction of both the city and its temple in 70AD by the Romans in the First Revolt. Jesus wept, mourning sorrowfully for this beloved great city and its inhabitants. This lamentation could only be found in Luke. By not accepting Jesus, the prince of peace, Jerusalem became the face of turmoil, revolt, war, total devastation and exile.

Corporate Leadership

As a person climbs higher up the corporate ladder, he tends to be staid and less emotional. He may have learnt that showing emotion could be misread as a sign of weakness. Hence it is better to have a “poker face” so that his staffs and colleagues are not able to read what is in his mind. Jesus wept over the city that God had chosen for His people. He felt sad and wept when He saw the state it had degenerated into. It was many years later after Jerusalem’s destruction that people realised their mistake in forsaking God. Likewise, a good leader has to show his deep felt thoughts and emotions at appropriate times and to the right people. In self- disclosure, he makes others realise the values he treasures in his heart. This is not to impress others but to impress upon them what is important. – XW

Family Leadership

Jesus felt great pains and sorrow for His beloved city of Jerusalem knowing full well what their unfaithfulness and disobedience could cause them. Parents similarly feel devastated when their children continue to go against their better judgments and advice. The pain is especially acute when parents instinctively know the decision those children make that will have long term repercussions but whose caution are turned away. These can be risky behaviour like drinking, smoking, dating or committing to a relationship at a young age. The Jews were lost due to their ineffective and self-serving spiritual leaders. Likewise, parents too become ineffective when they are self-serving because if they had no time for their children, others will. Such parents can only lament with regret when their beloved children go down the slippery slope. In order to lead, parents need to spend time with their children to build a trusting and loving relationship. – XW

More Will Be Given

While people were listening to Jesus speak, He proceeded to tell a parable because He was near Jerusalem and they thought that the Kingdom of God would appear there immediately. So He said, “A nobleman went off to a distant country to obtain the kingship for himself and then to return. He called ten of his servants and gave them ten gold coins and told them, ‘Engage in trade with these until I return.’ His fellow citizens, however, despised him and sent a delegation after him to announce, ‘We do not want this man to be our king.’ But when he returned after obtaining the kingship, he had the servants called, to whom he had given the money, to learn what they had gained by trading. The first came forward and said, ‘Sir, your gold coin has earned ten additional ones.’ He replied, ‘Well done, good servant! You have been faithful in this very small matter; take charge of ten cities.’ Then the second came and reported, ‘Your gold coin, sir, has earned five more.’ And to this servant too he said, ‘You, take charge of five cities.’ Then the other servant came and said, ‘Sir, here is your gold coin; I kept it stored away in a handkerchief, for I was afraid of you, because you are a demanding man; you take up what you did not lay down and you harvest what you did not plant.’ He said to him, ‘With your own words I shall condemn you, you wicked servant. You knew I was a demanding man, taking up what I did not lay down and harvesting what I did not plant; why did you not put my money in a bank? Then on my return I would have collected it with interest.’ And to those standing by he said, ‘Take the gold coin from him and give it to the servant who has ten.’ But they said to him, ‘Sir, he has ten gold coins.’ He replied, ‘I tell you, to everyone who has, more will be given, but from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away. Now as for those enemies of mine who did not want me as their king, bring them here and slay them before me.’” After He had said this, He proceeded on His journey up to Jerusalem.

Reflection

After highlighting Zacchaeus as a model descendent of Abraham, Jesus impending entry into Jerusalem brought excitement to the people. According to the prophets, the Messiah’s triumphant entry into Jerusalem would bring about God’s kingdom; perhaps answering their prayers to overturn Roman domination? Instead Jesus solemnly warned the people to guard their own spiritual faithfulness before the coming of the kingdom in the parable of the ten minas. This paralleled the parable of the talents in Matthew 25:14-30. A mina was a gold coin, a monetary unit in ancient Greece, with less value than a talent. In both parables, Jesus warned them to be faithful and diligent in what was entrusted to them. Those who were found so were rewarded with more while those found indifferent and idle would be stripped of everything. God reciprocated what was given in hate and hostility while returning what was given in faith and loyalty.

Corporate Leadership

Some staffs may have some misgivings about the bosses. In fact for some of them, they harbour anti-establishment sentiments. They are indifferent to others and the company’s success but they demand rewards. Yet, they point out the seemingly “unfair” reward to others more diligent than them. Jesus pointed out such attitude to the Jews. They expected a miraculous conquest by a king riding into Jerusalem to rid the oppression of the Romans. However, they did not take responsibility for their own indifference to God that led them to this situation. Likewise, a good leader takes responsibility for the people entrusted and the tasks assigned to him. It has to start with the right attitude to people and work. Without work, there is no reward; with the right attitude, more shall be entrusted to him with matching rewards. A different workplace cannot prosper and succeed with indifferent people. – XW

Family Leadership

The basic principle of good begets good and bad begets bad is based on a universal law. It also popularises the phrase what goes around comes around. It is important that parents teach this law early in their children’s lives and constantly remind them of the consequences if this law is violated. What is so disconcerting is that this law applies not only to life in this world but also applies to the life after. In the parable, Jesus makes it clear God, The king, reciprocates likewise what was given to him. To help children remember this important principle, parents can role-play with them. If someone has been kind to them, how will they respond? If someone has been nasty to them, how will they respond? Through role-playing, children understand that everyone is the same with feelings, fears and dreams; and they reciprocate what they have received. – XW

To Save The Lost

At that time Jesus came to Jericho and intended to pass through the town. Now a man there named Zacchaeus, who was a chief tax collector and also a wealthy man, was seeking to see who Jesus was; but he could not see Him because of the crowd, for he was short in stature. So he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore tree in order to see Jesus, who was about to pass that way. When he reached the place, Jesus looked up and said, “Zacchaeus, come down quickly, for today I must stay at your house.” And he came down quickly and received Him with joy. When they saw this, they began to grumble, saying, “He has gone to stay at the house of a sinner.” But Zacchaeus stood there and said to the Lord, “Behold, half of my possessions, Lord, I shall give to the poor, and if I have extorted anything from anyone I shall repay it four times over.” And Jesus said to him, “Today salvation has come to this house because this man too is a descendant of Abraham. For the Son of Man has come to seek and to save what was lost.”

Reflection

After healing Bartimaeus, Jesus continued on His journey to Jerusalem passing through Jericho. Zacchaeus, a chief tax collector, was greatly despised by the Jews. Firstly, tax collectors were known to accumulate enormous wealth by over-taxing the people. Secondly, they were seen as traitors by collecting taxes for their Roman occupiers. However, much to the murmurings of the crowd, Jesus honoured him by offering Himself as a guest in his house. Zacchaeus was moved to genuine repentance by the merciful and unconditional acceptance of Jesus. He offered half of his riches to the poor and make restitution for fraud with the rest. Though a public sinner, the generous gesture of Zacchaeus was a sharp contrast to the righteous young Pharisee in Luke 18: 18-23, who was unwilling to part with his wealth. Jesus affirmed Zacchaeus as a true descendant of Abraham, inheriting the salvation that God had plan for them.

Corporate Leadership

There are some people who are naturally self-conscious and shy. When they are criticized, they could be hurt and they could even go into depression. Their self-esteem could trigger a series of emotional responses that others find unacceptable. Over time, they may retreat into a shell and avoid their colleagues and friends. Zacchaeus was a tax collector shunned by his fellow Jews. Short in stature, he could have been ridiculed in his life. He retreated into this work that gave him a false sense of authority over the people whom disliked him. However, Jesus knew that he really wanted acceptance by his fellowmen. Likewise, people want to be praised and recognised. Friendship is important to all people. Friends make a person whole. Friends also give meaning to life and a reason live. A good leader understands this and befriends even those who seem to shy away from others – XW

Family Leadership

Zacchaeus knew his ill-gotten wealth had made him enemy of the people. The constant rejection from his fellow Jews hardened his heart against repentance. However, he experienced the sweetness of unconditional love and acceptance instead of judgment from Jesus. Zacchaeus’ heart was opened and naturally drawn to Him. Likewise, children who suffer rejection, failure and disappointments naturally harden their hearts as a protection from the judgment that hurt them. Parents, who do not understand their natural reaction of clamming up, frustrate the situation through nagging and criticism with their own outbursts. Jesus accepted Zacchaeus first and through that friendship allowed him to see his own faults. There was no need for Jesus to point out his sins. Likewise, parents can first accept their withdrawn and underachieving children. When children start experiencing the sweetness of unconditional love and acceptance, they are naturally drawn towards parents who do not judged them. – XW

A Blind Man Saved

As Jesus approached Jericho a blind man was sitting by the roadside begging, and hearing a crowd going by, he inquired what was happening. They told him, “Jesus of Nazareth is passing by.” He shouted, “Jesus, Son of David, have pity on me!” The people walking in front rebuked him, telling him to be silent, but he kept calling out all the more, “Son of David, have pity on me!” Then Jesus stopped and ordered that he be brought to Him; and when he came near, Jesus asked him, “What do you want Me to do for you?” He replied, “Lord, please let me see.” Jesus told him, “Have sight; your faith has saved you.” He immediately received his sight and followed Him, giving glory to God. When they saw this, all the people gave praise to God.

Reflection

Jesus was on His final trip to Jerusalem to celebrate the Passover and had to pass the city of Jericho. When a blind and destitute man called Bartimaeus knew about it, he grabbed the opportunity to call out to Him. Bartimaeus already heard about the healing miracles of Jesus and believed without reservation that He was the Messiah. The name Son of David was a clear reference and title for the Messiah. It referred to a promise God made to David that the Messiah would come from His line of descendents. This story paralleled another one in Matthew 9:27, where two blind men also acknowledged Jesus as the Son of David, and was immediately healed too. It took courage, determination and persistence for Bartimaeus to get the attention of Jesus over the objection and opposition from the crowd. Jesus was moved by His simple request and restored his sight immediately.

Corporate Leadership

Even though some people have been working in their company for a long time, they could be “blind” to some aspects of their work. Some of them may not know that they are not doing the right thing. For example, a customer service officer could be rude without someone pointing out his attitude; or an engineer who does not monitor safety parameters critical to production. The incident of the blind man who called out to Jesus showed a person aware of his blindness and sought help. Even though Jesus’ disciples tried to quiet him, he refused to be denied. He did not want to be blind and was willing to be healed by Jesus. Likewise, a good leader recognises that there are staffs and colleagues who need help but do not ask. They could be shy initially but if help is offered, they are grateful for it. – XW

Family Leadership

Even blind and destitute Bartimaeus was able to see opportunity when it came by him. He went against all opposition and objection to do something for himself. Parents of children with learning or physical disabilities can teach them this spirit of determination to rise above one’s disability and handicap. Instead of feeling sorry for themselves or for their children, parents can continue to look out for opportunities that help them cope or their children cope. Both parents and children can develop the spirit of determination not only to help themselves but those with similar conditions too. They can join a support group or start one if there is none. From the support group, members are able to support one another, exchange ideas, recommend products and services or look for opportunities to better themselves. With faith and determination like Bartimaeus’, every dark cloud has a silver lining. – XW