Mark 10: 46 – 52
They spent some time in Jericho. As Jesus was leaving town, trailed by his disciples and a parade of people, a blind beggar by the name of Bartimaeus, son of Timaeus, was sitting alongside the road. When he heard that Jesus the Nazarene was passing by, he began to cry out, “Son of David, Jesus! Mercy, have mercy on me!” Many tried to hush him up, but he yelled all the louder, “Son of David! Mercy, have mercy on me!”
Jesus stopped in his tracks. “Call him over.”
They called him. “It’s your lucky day! Get up! He’s calling you to come!” Throwing off his coat, he was on his feet at once and came to Jesus.
Jesus said, “What can I do for you?”
The blind man said, “Rabbi, I want to see.”
“On your way,” said Jesus. “Your faith has saved and healed you.”
In that very instant he recovered his sight and followed Jesus down the road.
Gospel Reflection
Bartimaeus shows his faith in Jesus in two ways.
Firstly he calls out to Jesus to heal him in a specific way. Faith is only faith when we are able to express exactly what it is we are trusting God for. It is no good to just ask a general blessing or for healing in general. We need to state exactly what it is that we are looking to God for – whether it is for salvation or healing of the eyes or enough money to repair the car.
Secondly Bartimaeus gets up and follows Jesus. Bartimaeus is not just healed in his physical sight. He starts on the path of following Jesus in his daily life. He is not just saved, he starts the walk of discipleship, allowing Jesus to determine his path.
Until this time, Bartimaeus’ condition determined every part of his life. From now on Jesus determines every part of his life.
To be a follower of Jesus, it’s not enough to see the truth. You have to follow the Truth also.