A New View

The story of blind Bartimaeus always tugs at my heart.

Here was a man at the roadside, making his way in life by begging—not a desirable existence. One day he learned Jesus would pass by. I believe Bartimaeus had heard of Jesus’ heart of compassion for the marginalized and of His many miracles.

Hope filled his heart, and Bartimaeus wondered, What if Jesus cares about me too? So, Bartimaeus began to muster the courage to engage Jesus as He drew near. When Jesus was within hearing distance, Bartimaeus called out, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” (Mark 10:47, NIV). As he cried out, he was shushed by people who thought he did not matter. He was used to being ostracized by others, but today he kept putting himself out there. “Son of David,” he called louder, “Have mercy on me!” (verse 48, NIV). He then heard the words that brought healing to his soul: “What do you want me to do for you?” (verse 51, NIV).

Jesus not only heard him but also responded. Wow! The blind man courageously appealed, “Rabbi [my Master], I want to see” (verse 51, NIV). “Your faith has healed you” (verse 52, NIV), Jesus affirmed, and immediately, Bartimaeus received his sight.

What a beautiful, teachable moment. Not only did Jesus embrace and heal Bartimaeus but the community also saw his value to Jesus. He gave them a new view as He gently revealed their spiritual blindness. By asking, “What do you want me to do for you?” Jesus modeled the importance of dignifying the man’s needs rather than minimizing them. As I considered Bartimaeus’s story, I recalled a situation that occurred shortly after I arrived at Christian Record Services for the Blind. I went to the airport to meet a friend who was blind. I was unsure whether I should offer to guide or if she would prefer to navigate with her cane, a guide dog, or perhaps echolocation, as some people who are blind prefer.

So when we connected, I asked the simple question, “Is there anything I can do for you?” That is how I learned she would like to hold the back of my elbow as I led her. Jesus wants us to turn to Him too. He is ready to respond, “What do you want Me to do for you?” Sometimes He answers as we wish, and other times, He offers something better.

But He is always there and listens with a heart of love.

Let us turn to Him today.

Diane Thurber