Then they reached Jericho, and as Jesus and his disciples left town, a large crowd followed him. A blind beggar named Bartimaeus (son of Timaeus) was sitting beside the road. 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!”
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.
“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 10:46-52
It takes courage to ask for help. It takes courage to ask others to pray for our needs.
If you step out and ask for prayer at Hope, one of the first questions you will be asked is: “How can I pray for you?” We do not assume to know what you need. That would be dishonoring. We want you to share what you are carrying.
We model that, in part, after Jesus and his response to Bartimaeus in Mark 10.
One would think it painfully obvious what Jesus should do for Bartimaeus. However, instead of jumping to conclusions, the Savior of the world pauses. He calls Bartimaeus to him and engages in a conversation. With one simple question, Bartimaeus is given the space to be honest, speak his heart, and share his need with the one person who could help.
It is the same for us.
If you don’t believe you can talk with God about your personal needs, please let Bartimaeus’ example guide you. You may not be a beggar alongside the road of Jericho, but you may be carrying deep needs only Jesus can heal.
Call to him. Ask him. Even if the world tries to tell you to be quiet. You are not disrupting God’s day by talking with him. Throw off any barriers between you and Jesus. Come to him. Honestly. Whole-heartedly. With the faith and knowledge that he will hear you and meet you in your need.
A challenge for today: Let’s practice what Jesus modeled. Get curious and ask family, friends, or a neighbor what they need today. Do not assume or act before they share. Instead, pause and listen to their needs. Then pray and ask God to guide you.
Prayer:
Gracious and loving God, thank you for always hearing my prayers.
I need your help today. Would you please guide me through _____________?
Would you please provide wisdom for _____________?
Would you please bring healing to _____________?
Thank you, Lord, for being my help in every need. Amen.