Jesus hears Bartimaeus’ cry
Pray
Begin with prayer, opening your heart to His Word and Spirit.
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.
Reflect
Bartimaeus is well known in this community. He is the blind son of Timaeus, trapped in a world of darkness and poverty. As Jesus passes, his shouting and cries for mercy embarrass the people, and they urge him to keep quiet. Jesus is surrounded by crowds but still hears the voice of Bartimaeus. He stops and calls for Bartimaeus to come to Him. Jesus grants his request and, with faith, seeing Bartimaeus follows him along the road. It is the road to Jerusalem.
Closing prayer
Lord, we thank You that you hear those who cry out to You. Help us to be part of bringing Your strength to the weak and wholeness to those who need your healing power. Amen.