“When he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, He began to shut, “Jesus, son of David, have mercy on me.” (Mark 10:47 NIV)
For a wild man, Bartimaeus was fairly fearless. If I was blind, I’d be pretty timid. Causing too much of a ruckus might make me a burden, I’d do my best to blend in. I’d be excruciatingly aware of my dependency on my peers and probably seek to please them. (Who am I kidding? I wear corrective lenses, I can see fine and I still struggle with people pleasing!) I’d be concerned that if I became too much of an annoyance, sighted peers might start playing tricks on me.
Bartimaeus abandoned all reservation and hollered for his healing. He begged the Son of David to have mercy on Him. We get a glimpse of a man who was desperate for a divine intervention. He was making a racket!
“Many rebuked him, and told him to be quiet, but he shouted all the more, “Son of David, have mercy on me!” (Mark 10:48 NIV)
I’ve spent a lot of years teaching drama skills to students and believe me, getting them to push past the pressure of their peers is a real challenge. Yet Bartimaeus blew by the opinion of others in a matter of moments, totally intent on gaining the Savior’s undivided attention. This was his one opportunity for healing and like a young Alexander Hamilton, he was not throwing away his shot.
I’m convicted by blind Bartimaeus’ enthusiasm. If we look back to the origination of the word: theos – divine, enthous – possessed by, inspired by, we realize it’s always been about God! Bartimaeus may have missed social cues and facial expressions, but he saw what was most important when Jesus passed by.
So often we are affected by others; afraid to offend, reluctant to attract negative attention, so we turn down our enthusiasm, our God-excitement. As a result, we miss out on the fullness of what God might want to do in our lives. Bartimaeus could have been hushed and he could have gone home blind as he did every day before. But instead, he refused to allow the opinions of his peers to diminish his enthusiasm for Jesus. He got his miracle and ultimately he took many more steps toward the Kingdom. His boldness paid off.
“”Go,” Jesus said, “Your faith has healed you.” Immediately he received his sight and followed Jesus along the road.”” (Mark 10:52 NIV)
Lord, please help us let go of expectations and popular opinion. We want to fully follow You. Bartimaeus blew past public rebuke in order to gain a divine audience, he refused to let his opportunity pass by without an outcry. May we learn from his fearlessness. Give us the courage to engage life with the same level of enthusiasm. We want to seize every opportunity to get in step with You! Amen.