March 3, 2017: SOAP #2647:  Numbers 32-33; Mark 10

Scripture:  Mark (NIV) 10:46 Then they came to Jericho. As Jesus and his disciples, together with a large crowd, were leaving the city, a blind man, Bartimaeus (that is, the Son of Timaeus), was sitting by the roadside begging.  47 When he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to shout, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!”  48 Many rebuked him and told him to be quiet, but he shouted all the more, “Son of David, have mercy on me!”  49 Jesus stopped and said, “Call him.” So, they called to the blind man, “Cheer up! On your feet! He’s calling you.”  50 Throwing his cloak aside, he jumped to his feet and came to Jesus.  51 “What do you want me to do for you?” Jesus asked him. The blind man said, “Rabbi, I want to see.”  52 “Go,” said Jesus, “your faith has healed you.” Immediately he received his sight and followed Jesus along the road.

Observation:    This man became part of the triumphal entry into Jerusalem. Perhaps his testimony caused others to join in the rejoicing. After all, how does one react upon receiving their sight? Along the road would be others who had often seen the blind beggar.  Word would have spread about this miracle.  Obviously Bartimaeus caused quite a stir.

Application:  Does my response to what Jesus has done for me make others want to follow Him too?  Hmmm …

Prayer:   Heavenly Father, how can I not rejoice when I consider all You and Your Son, Jesus, have done for me!  May my joy be contagious!  Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!