By Mike Seale

In the story of blind Bartimaeus (Mark 10:46-52) Jesus responded to his call for mercy, and so the Son of GOD asked him, “What do you want me to do for you?” Can you imagine Jesus asking you that question? What would you say? This is not some genie in a bottle, this is the King of kings and LORD of lords talking here. What do you want me to do for you? What are you going to ask Him to do ? Bartimaeus knew exactly what he wanted! “I want to see!” I’m pretty certain that is what our daughter, Hannah Ruth, would ask for, “I want to see!”

Recently, upon my return from the mission trip from Nicaragua, I went to the doctor. Physically I was miserable. He asked me, “What can I do for you?” Let me tell you I was not vague! I was very specific and he was very thorough! Blood work, temperature, ears, throat, and nasal all checked. He listened to me breathe and then he listened to my heart.

William Barclay notes, “Too often our admiration for Jesus is a vague attraction.” Coming to Jesus involves self-examination, something we rarely do or even want to do. When we find ourselves as desperate and as definite in what we want/need as Bartimaeus, great things will happen!

The Challenge today: figure out what you are in desperate need of from Jesus, then go ask for mercy. May you be blessed as the Holy Spirit reveals that truth to you.