Darkness To Light
Opening Prayer
Good Lord, may the light of Your Word shine brightly into the dark and dim places of my life today.
Read Mark 10:46-52
[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. Scripture taken from the Holy Bible, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 International Bible Society. All rights reserved throughout the world. Used by permission of International Bible Society.
Reflect
What did Jesus commend about this blind man?Look back at the story of another blind man in Mark 8:22-26, which we read some days ago. That story ended one section of Mark’s Gospel. This story about Bartimaeus finishes another as the disciples start their final journey into Jerusalem. Note the many similarities and differences between the stories. This blind man is named and very forthright. He knows what he wants and has already made up his mind about who Jesus is: the Son of David, a messianic title. The Messiah can be merciful towards him (47). There is no holding back. However, as with the children in 10:13, others try to restrain him. Yet, neither is there any holding back on Jesus’ part. The man jumps to his feet and, blind as he is, lurches towards Jesus’ voice. He is alert and full of the right kind of enthusiasm. Jesus simply asks him what he wants. Unlike the rich man, Bartimaeus blurts out his request and is commended for his faith. This time there are no half measures. Full sight has been restored. This is real faith, really commended by Jesus!
Apply
What would Jesus commend about you? Would he commend your faith? Pray for any changes needed in you.
Closing prayer
Lord Jesus, You know the areas of my blindness and my other needs for Your healing. Touch me, I pray.
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