Bartimaeus is blind. He sits alongside the road Jesus is traveling and when he hears that Jesus is passing by, he cries out “Son of David, have mercy on me!” People in the crowd tell him to shut up, but he yells louder. When Jesus calls him over, Bartimaeus throws off his cloak and springs up, somehow making his way to Jesus through the crowd.
Bartimaeus is by the road begging because he is blind. He is begging because it is his only option. Because he is blind, Bartimaeus is unable to work. People going about their lives are all around, maybe noticing him in his need, maybe judging his blindness, maybe judging his poverty, maybe feeling superior and grateful for their sight and resources, maybe being moved ti give a small coin to help this unfortunate man. Jesus’ arrival, though, may bring the possibility of a new beginning.
Jesus asks Bartimaeus “What do you want me to do for you?” Jesus asked the same question of James and John just a few verses earlier. They asked for high positions when Jesus comes into power. Bartimaeus asked to see again. Both requests were for something life-changing, but only Bartimaeus’ request is consistent with Jesus’ mission in the world. Jesus has come to bring healing and wholeness. Jesus has not come to put his followers into positions of power and influence. He has not come to distribute favors to those who are faithful to him. Jesus has come to bring healing to people who are suffering. Jesus has come to notice and reach out when people are struggling and vulnerable. Jesus has come to bring new life to people in need.
Bartimaeus’ story reminds that we struggle and find ourselves looking to see (literally and figuratively) where God is and what God is doing in our lives and in the world. We cry out for mercy, then realize that Jesus is right there with us. How will we respond to Jesus’ question, “What do you want me to do for you?”
Peace,