This account on the healing of the
blind man is also recorded in the Gospel of Mark 10:46-52. Mark's account
reveals that his name is Bartimaeus. Interestingly, this name means son of
honour. Luke tells us that Jesus was approaching Jericho, where this blind man
was begging. As usual where Jesus went, a crowd would be gathered. This time,
it was no different. A crowd was also gathering. Though Bartimaeus could
not see, he could hear. On hearing the commotion, he inquired of them, asking
what was happening. On learning that Jesus of Nazareth was passing by, he cried
out loudly, saying, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” Some people
sternly told him to shut up. But unmoved, he kept crying for mercy. We
are told in verse 40, that Jesus stopped and commanded that Bartimaeus be
brought to Him. Nobody, regardless of status, was insignificant to Him. The
Lord of life would not pass over any one who turns to Him for help. He still
hears our cries for mercy today. He will not pass us by.
What's puzzling is in the question
Jesus asked Bartimaeus. "What do you want me to do for you?"
Isn't that a strange question? Couldn't Jesus see his obvious need? Sight, of
course! The question wasn't redundant. There were and still are many who would
rather remain in their handicapped situation. At least they could wallow in self-pity
and continue to have the attention of others. It was not likely that He didn't
know his need, but He wanted him to express his desire. The Lord would do for
us what we desire. So Jesus said to him, “Receive your sight; your faith has
made you well.” And immediately, his sight was restored to him. The obvious
result took place: he followed Jesus and kept giving God the glory. And through
Him others were also led to praise God.
The Lord is just as compassionate
today. He still wants to meet our needs in life. The question is: what would we
do when our needs are met by Him? Encountering Jesus always results in a
changed life. Bartimaeus was no longer blind. And he no longer needed to beg.
He just followed Jesus and would not stop speaking His praise. He finally found
his name to be true - Bartimaeus, son of honor.
How do we see
ourselves each day? Having invited Jesus into our lives, each one of us is a
true Bartimaeus, a son of honor. Our lives must of necessity reflect the
Heavenly Father Who alone deserves the honor. Let us live our lives to His honor
as He has given us the honor to know and experience Him!
No comments:
Post a Comment