Sunday Readings: Jeremiah 31.7-9; Hebrews 5.1-6; Mark 10.46-52
Bartimaeus threw of his cloak, jumped up, and came to Jesus. Jesus said to him, “What do you want me to do for you?” “Teacher, I want to see again”.
(Mark 10.50-51)
Even before Jesus heals his blindness, Bartimaeus throws away his cloak, in which he probably collected the money passersby threw his way. He accepts the call to discipleship before Jesus gives it. His desire to see transforms Bartimaeus. Their desire for status impedes the visions of James and John, over confident they can drink the cup Jesus drinks. His desire for belonging keeps the rich young man from following Jesus. The blind beggar who sees with eyes of faith becomes the model disciple. Bartimaeus must have come to faith in Jesus through hearing others talk about him. In that sense he is like all of us today who believe on the testimony of others.
What keeps you from throwing away your cloak?
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