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Mark 10:32–34, 46–52
This miracle, the last recorded in Mark, occurs on Jesus’ journey to Jerusalem, where death and resurrection await. Bartimaeus has unrelenting conviction that Jesus can and will heal his affliction. Though a blind beggar, Bartimaeus’ circumstances do not hinder his unwavering faith. He understands deeply that Jesus has the power to restore his vision and alleviate his misfortune. Even when others in the crowd attempt to silence Bartimaeus, he continues to call out to Jesus even louder, with persistence and resilience.
Whether it be physical ailments, economic turmoil, or both (as was the case for Bartimaeus), we must remember that God can always hear our cries. Although Bartimaeus begins the story overlooked by society and cast off alongside the road, he ends the story as a named follower, joining Jesus on His journey to Jerusalem. With faith, we can prevail in even the most difficult times. We just have to follow Jesus.
It is often easy to remain faithful when everything in our lives is in accord with our personal visions of success. It is often much more difficult to remain faithful in hard times. Often, we as God’s people fail to see the vision God has for our lives. When we lose our faith, we also lose sight of our purpose, and we fail to turn to God in our times of despair. Just as Christ exclaimed to the blind beggar, our faith will make us well. Only through Him can we regain our sight.
Prayer:
Dear Lord, may we stay committed to Your commands and faithfully trust You. When our purpose is clouded and Your vision unclear, may we cling to our faith to regain sight, and may our faith in You may make us well.
Sydney Thurman-Baldwin
(Read the next devotion here.)
