Daily Devotional – Sunday, February 27, 2022
Then many warned him to be quiet; but he cried out all the more, “Son of David, have mercy on me!”
Mark 10:48 (NKJV)
When Bartimaeus left home for his favourite begging spot, his intention was to gather more coins from passersby. All factors held constant, this day would end like the previous ones. What happened next, however, was beyond his imagination.
Jesus was in Jericho. Bartimaeus was familiar with the name and the miracles associated with it. He had heard how other blind people could now see, following an encounter with Jesus. Today, he must try his luck.
Making the Loudest Noise
But how could a blind man reach Jesus? Jesus’ twelve apostles and a group of other disciples always surrounded the Lord. The Lord’s entourage also included spies and religious leaders keen to find fault with Jesus.
The only option left to Bartimaeus was to shout above the din. For a blind man who spent most of the time squatting in a busy corner of the street, it was important to make the loudest noise he could.
They Warned Him to Be Quiet
Bartimaeus “began to cry out and say, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!”” (Mark 10:47). Bartimaeus’ must have irritated the people around Jesus because they “warned him to be quiet.” (Mark 10:48).
Mark observes that instead of the blind man keeping quiet, he became louder, perhaps more infuriating. There was no way he was going to lose this opportunity for healing. His efforts were successful. Jesus asked those around Him to call the blind man.
Jesus Could Not Ignore Bartimaeus
You can imagine how embarrassed some in the crowd were when they had to tell Bartimaeus that Jesus was calling him! The blind man shouted so loudly that the multitude and Jesus could not ignore him.
There are moments when I need the attitude and determination of Bartimaeus. When I want God to attend to my needs and the world around me attempts to convince me that Jesus will not listen, this is the faith that can win my battle.
I Can Do All Things through Christ Who Strengthens Me
When friends and enemies alike try to dissuade me from reaching my goals and destiny, I need the courage to work even harder and beat the odds. I must tell Jesus what ails my heart and what I want Him to do for me.
I must silence the loud inner voices of doubt that try to convince me that Jesus will not listen to me. My mantra must be “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” (Philippians 4:13). “For with God nothing will be impossible.” (Luke 1:37).
What ‘impossibility’ do you trust God to deliver in your life today?
Lord Jesus, like Bartimaeus, I will not stop calling on You until You answer my prayers.
