READ: Mark 10: 46–52 … he began to cry out and say, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” … Be of good cheer. Rise, He is calling you.” … The blind man said to Him, “Rabboni, that I may receive my sight.” Then Jesus said to him, “Go your way; your faith has made you well.” And immediately he received his sight and followed Jesus …
This event speaks of more than just Jesus performing another miracle. Blind Bartimaeus likely understands, through the crowd accompanying Jesus, that He will pass by. In great expectation, he calls out to Him: Jesus, Son of David, which is equivalent to Christ, the Messiah. This surpasses what others say about Him (Luke 9:19).
Bartimaeus appeals to Jesus’ power and pleads for mercy. He seems to have heard that Jesus is moved by mercy when healing people. However, his faith is tested when bystanders want him to be silent and make it clear. The blind man could give up, but instead, he shouts the same plea even louder. He persists because he believes in his Savior.
And then, what he hoped for happens. Jesus hears him, stops, and has him brought to Him. Then, the blind man hears these comforting words: “Have good courage, rise, He is calling you!” “Have good courage” are the words of Jesus Himself.
He spoke these words to a paralyzed man (Matt. 9:2), the woman with the issue of blood (Matt. 9:22), the disciples on the water (Matt. 14:27), the disciples when hearing of tribulation (John 16:33), and Paul (Acts 23:11). Jesus also speaks these words to us: Have good courage when you call out to Me and expect from Me, I am with you and will deliver you!
The blind man frees himself from hindering clothing and rushes eagerly to Jesus, who tenderly asks him: “What do you want me to do for you?” Bartimaeus expresses his greatest expectation: “That I may receive my sight.”
Then, Jesus not only shows a glorious miracle but emphasizes the faith needed for salvation. Jesus saw this faith in this man. He promises him more than just the sight of his eyes; also his spiritual salvation! Then, he follows Jesus.
What does this healing teach for your life with Christ?
Singing: Ps. 50:7