“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.” Mark 10.46-52
Seeing is truly believing.
For years, I had heard about how big New York City was, but it wasn’t until I was in my forties that I could see it for myself. The hundreds of skyscrapers, the millions of people, and the vastness of Central Park were impressive. I had to see it to believe it.
But for Bartimaeus, he believed without seeing. He had heard about Jesus, the miracle worker who made the sick well. Although he couldn’t see for himself, his hearing, as a blind person, was even more acute. He listened to the stories about Jesus, and when the miracle worker showed up in Jericho, Bartimaeus was determined not to miss out.
The desperation of Bartimaeus strikes me as uncommon. Over and over again, he calls out, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me.” He’s even hushed by those near him until Jesus hears his call of faith and brings Bartimaeus before him. Despite knowing that Bartimaeus is blind, Jesus asks, “What do you want me to do for you?” And Bartimaeus speaks his deepest need: “I want to see.” Jesus heals him in that very moment.
What would complete desperation look like in our lives? Are we willing to be laid bare before God, revealing our deepest needs? Are we crazy enough to call out in prayer, “Jesus, save me,” over and over again? If we’ve learned anything from Bartimaeus, it’s that Jesus notices persistence and prayer for healing.
We are all in need. What do you need the Lord to do for you today? Why not call out to him, “Lord Jesus, have mercy upon me, a sinner!”
“O Lord God, you are good. In my weakness, you are made strong. You guide my steps, lead me in your ways. I do not always want to go where you lead me, although I know it is best. I thank you, Lord, for your patience. Sanctify me, fill me with your Spirit. Let me know that you are good and that you are God. I love you, Lord, and praise your name. For you are good and your love endures forever.” Amen