Luke chapter 18 verses 35-43 (NIV)
As Jesus approached Jericho, a blind man was sitting by the roadside begging. When he heard the crowd going by, he asked what was happening. They told him, “Jesus of Nazareth is passing by.” He called out, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” Those who led the way rebuked him and told him to be quiet, but he shouted all the more, “Son of David, have mercy on me!” Jesus stopped and ordered the man to be brought to him. When he came near, Jesus asked him, “What do you want me to do for you?”“Lord, I want to see,” he replied. Jesus said to him, “Receive your sight; your faith has healed you.” Immediately he received his sight and followed Jesus, praising God. When all the people saw it, they also praised God.
Other Gospels tell us the blind man’s name was Bartimaeus. As a beggar, he would have been the lowest of the low. Indeed some of those who may have passed by where he sat on a regular basis, may not have known his name. He would have been expected to be subservient and submissive if he wanted to get any money , so when he took his chance and called out to Jesus, he was rebuked and told to be quiet. But this time instead of being obedient, he shouted even louder. His persistence paid off. Jesus called for him and he was healed. Now the people who rebuked him were praising God with him in thanks for his healing.
What if he’d done what they told him? If he’d kept quiet would he have missed his chance? This reminded me that there are times we need to speak up a bit louder and go against the crowd if we have to. If we do, we may find that those who were telling us to be quiet end up praising God with us.
Dear Lord,
Thank You for reminding me today of Bartimaeus’ persistence in the face of rebuke and derision. Help me to be as persistent in such circumstances to see You being praised and glorified. I ask in Jesus’ Name. Amen.