Told to Keep Quiet

Meditation
Mark 10:47,48—When he heard that it was Jesus the Nazarene, he began to cry out, “Son of David, Jesus, have mercy on me!” Many people told him to keep quiet, but he was crying out all the more, “Have mercy on me, Son of David!”
 
I am motivated by this story for many reasons.  First, Bartimaeus, the blind beggar mentioned above, was a man of faith. He had heard about Jesus and, when he realized the Son of God was close, he took action and cried out for mercy.  Just because someone struggles or is disabled does not mean that person is necessarily deficient in faith.  

Second, Bartimaeus knew he had a need and he did not care whether or not the people around him approved of his behavior. He wanted to see! Had he listened to their admonitions to shush, he in all likelihood would have remained blind.  Bart yelled louder and his efforts paid off as Jesus stopped, called him, asked him what he wanted and then healed him.  Is it possible that God does not answer our inward faith because we are outwardly cowed into silence? Do you have a need? Don’t let people shame you into silence or pressure you to accept your condition.  Beware of letting others’ comfort-level determine your actions. If you believe the Master can fix your problem, if you need mercy, by all means yell out to Him!

Third, this passage reminds me of the world we live in, where many people it seems will attempt to prevent anyone from making a scene, so as not to be bothered, so as not to offend. They didn’t approve of a ruckus-making beggar. Do you suspect their intentions were selfish? They were just outside the town of Jericho walking with Jesus and His disciples to His next destination and they didn’t care to be interrupted by a poor, handicapped sinner. 

Fourth, evidently there were members of that entourage who were for Bartimaeus.  When Jesus stopped and called for him, they said to him, “Have courage! Get up; He’s calling for you” (10:49).  Isn’t this how we should be?  When we find a person or persons in need and know that God is able to meet the need, we ought to come alongside with encouragement.  Have courage!  Get off the side of the road! Jesus hears your cry for help.

Fifth, after healing Bartimaeus, Jesus told him to “Go your way” (10:52).  Bartimaeus probably lived in Jericho.  With his sight restored he did not look for family or friends to go and celebrate.  He did not leave the Master as so many others did after experiencing healing.  He followed Jesus down the road.  How instructive for us.  The best way to go is alwaysafter the Savior.  
            
Inspiration
            Herein lies the answer, Love that hears the plea,
            Reaching to the reacher; giving faith its sight.
            Eyes defined by darkness rescued by the Light
            Now to follow Jesus, joyful to be free!
 
©2016 Daniel York  ARR. Reveration is the weekly devotional ministry of First Cause.  If you would like to receive these devotionals go to www.firstcause.org and click on the “Click here to receive weekly devotionals” box.  Unlimited permission to copy this devotional without altering text or profiteering is allowed subject to inclusion of this copyright notice.      
 
Ecclesiastes 12:10-The Teacher sought to find delightful sayings and to accurately write words of truth.  (Holman CSB)