Have you ever felt like quitting, giving up, or throwing in the towel?
In Mark 10:46-52 we read about a man who refused to give up.
Then they reached Jericho, and as Jesus and his disciples left town, a large crowd followed him. A blind beggar named Bartimaeus (son of Timaeus) was sitting beside the road. 47 When Bartimaeus heard that Jesus of Nazareth was nearby, he began to shout, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” 48 “Be quiet!” many of the people yelled at him. But he only shouted louder, “Son of David, have mercy on me!” 49 When Jesus heard him, he stopped and said, “Tell him to come here.” So they called the blind man. “Cheer up,” they said. “Come on, he’s calling you!” 50 Bartimaeus threw aside his coat, jumped up, and came to Jesus. 51 “What do you want me to do for you?” Jesus asked. “My Rabbi, ” the blind man said, “I want to see!” 52 And Jesus said to him, “Go, for your faith has healed you.” Instantly the man could see, and he followed Jesus down the road.
I love this story because about three months ago I came down with an eye infection. When the left eye was nearly healed, the infection moved into my right eye. It has taken at least two months to get it cleared up. Many days everything was a blur and I couldn’t see to read. I understand why Bartimaeus said, “Master, I want to see!” The Lord knows that I wasn’t quiet. Day after day I prayed, “Lord, please heal my eyes. Please restore my vision!” He didn’t do it instantly but He answered my prayer and I can read again.
I believe Bartimaeus and his father were well-known in Jericho because Mark is careful to name him and then translate the name, “Son of Timaeus”. When he heard that Jesus was nearby, he realized this might be his only chance to get his sight, so he began to shout the name of Jesus, and when people told him to be quiet, he shouted even louder. Jesus heard him and sent for him. When Jesus asked, “What do you want me to do for you?” Bartimaeus didn’t have to think about it. He knew what he wanted – “I want to see!” Jesus granted his request.
What lessons can we draw from this account?
- Jesus may be closer than you think.
- He hears us when we cry out to Him.
- He is a compassionate Savior.
- There isn’t any issue you face that is too hard for Jesus.
- When He answers your prayer be sure to thank Him.
- Follow the example of Bartimaeus and go with Jesus.
Since He has restored my vision, I am more devoted than ever to Him and His Word.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, many who are reading this meditation have very real needs. As they cry out to you in faith, please meet their needs. Let them and others see how much you care. Draw others to yourself. We ask all of this in Your matchless name. Amen!