Persistent Faith

“When Bartimaeus heard that Jesus of Nazareth was nearby, he began to shout, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” “Be quiet!” many of the people yelled at him. But he only shouted louder, “Son of David, have mercy on me!”” (‭‭Mark‬ ‭10:47-48‬ ‭NLT‬‬)

Jesus is close to all of us. He surrounds us and is with us in both our times of need and times of fulfillment. Unacknowledgement of Jesus does not make Him disappear, He is always there, just waiting for you to invite Him in. Do you yell out for Jesus? Are you bold in your faith or are you easily stifled by the world to “be quiet” about your faith? We can learn from Bartimaeus, who was viewed by the world as simply a blind beggar. 

We all will face many trials, and need to be courageous enough to ask for help. Asking for help does not make you weak or selfish. We were not meant to do life all alone, relying on our own strength. We need the strength of community, and ultimately the strength that comes from Jesus. 

Persistence is required. Bartimaeus was persistent in his desire to gain the attention of Jesus, placing his faith in Him, that he would be recognized and ultimately healed. Faith does not come easy. There will be obstacles that test our faith, but we must persevere. 

“When Jesus heard him, he stopped and said, “Tell him to come here.” So they called the blind man. “Cheer up,” they said. “Come on, he’s calling you!” Bartimaeus threw aside his coat, jumped up, and came to Jesus.” ‭(Mark‬ ‭10:49-50‬ ‭NLT‬‬)

Jesus invites all of us to come to Him. Are you ready to jump up and run to Him? Bartimaeus was expectant for a healing, a transformation. His faith was strong. As a poor, blind man, he left behind his only possession, which was simply his coat. He disregarded where he placed it, as his faith led him to believe that Jesus would heal him. Bartimaeus was confident that he would regain his sight and that his life would be transformed by Jesus.

““What do you want me to do for you?” Jesus asked. “My Rabbi, ” the blind man said, “I want to see!” And Jesus said to him, “Go, for your faith has healed you.” Instantly the man could see, and he followed Jesus down the road.” (‭‭Mark‬ ‭10:51-52‬ ‭NLT‬‬)

Bartimaeus stepped out in faith and called on Jesus to heal him. He didn’t remain quiet, allowing the presence of Jesus to pass him by. He refused to remain silent. He showed courage in pursuing Jesus, despite the crowd around him telling him to be quiet. He demonstrates faith and trust in Jesus, that he will be seen and that he will be healed so he may see. 

Faith in Jesus has the ability to transform lives. He alone can bring wholeness and deliverance to those who seek Him. Jesus did not come to provide us with power, honor, or special privileges. He came so that our eyes may be opened. Jesus came simply to provide an example for how to live according to God’s will, to serve us so we may serve others, and to save us through His grace, love and mercy.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, I humbly come before You. Thank You for all the blessings that You provide to me and to all of Your people. There is no other like You, I praise You above all things. Thank You for Your word, and providing us examples in scripture to teach us and transform us. I pray for the persistent faith that Bartimaeus showed. I pray that I always invite you into my life, into my joys and my struggles. Help me to respond to You by jumping up and putting my trust in You alone. I pray this in the mighty name of Jesus, Amen.