Blind Bartimaeus
Pray
Begin with prayer, opening your heart to God’s Word and Spirit.
Read Mark 10:46-52
Blind Bartimaeus Receives His Sight
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 was well known in his community. He was the blind son of Timaeus, trapped in a world of darkness and poverty. As Jesus passed, the man’s shouting and cries for mercy from the “Son of David,” embarrassed the people; they urged him to keep quiet. Jesus was surrounded by crowds but still heard Bartimaeus. He stopped and called for Bartimaeus to come to him. Jesus granted his request, saying that his faith had made him well. Bartimaeus then followed Jesus, the giver of sight and life, along the road. It was the road to Jerusalem.
Closing prayer
Lord, we thank you that you hear those who cry out to you. Help us to come to you with faith like that of Bartimaeus. Help us to come with confidence, remembering your great love and care. Amen.