Mark 10:47

New International Version (NIV)

When he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to shout, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!”

For Meditation

In a world where bad news is suffocating, a gentle breeze of good news is always welcome. Blind Bartimaeus had this life altering experience one day in Jericho. His world was shrouded in darkness, and beauty was banished from him. The roadside was his office and begging was his business. He lived at the mercy of the generous; but, did anybody think Bartimaeus loved his life? Unfortunately, that’s how we think about the physically challenged who ask for a little favor by the roadside. It’s true some enjoy the handouts and dependency, but should that dull the merciful heart? Spiritual sensitivity is prime to this dilemma, a heart of Christ helps.

The first item on Blind Bartimaeus’ wish list was the recovery of his sight. He yearned to see. Sitting at one place with cup in hand was a monotonous and boring routine he dreaded. Besides, he craved his dignity. But where could Bartimaeus find help?

What a day that was when Jesus came by! That’s a name he recognized. The stories about the miracles, the casting out of demons, the healing, and the authoritative messages had convinced Bartimaeus that he is the Messiah, regardless of what the authorities claimed (Lk. 11:15). So, he made his pitch.

“Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me” (14:47).

The people rebuked him, but he persisted. This was his last opportunity to a fulfilled dream.

“Son of David, have mercy on me!”

“Call Him.”

“Cheer up! On your feet! He is calling you.”

What good news! The only One who could help him was calling him! His cloak was inconsequential, as he jumped to his feet with expectation and came to Jesus.

“What do you want me to do for you?”

“Rabbi, I want to see.”

“Go … your faith has healed you.”

But where else would Bartimaeus go? What was his life before Jesus? He had none, but now he was full of it. So, Bartimaeus gave it back to Jesus. What a man!

That’s the miracle of the new opportunity Christ brings to the blind, lame, and oppressed of the world. The call of Jesus is Good News. It brings life and renewed hope to the blind and lame of this world (Jn. 3:16). He has committed this message to us who have believed (2 Cor. 5:18-21). Our faithful obedience is all He requires, and the rest is the work of His Spirit.

Are you telling it?

Shalom