What Do You Want Me to Do for You?
May 21, 2023
Mark 10:46-52 | Psalm 46
Not many of those healed by Jesus are named in the gospels. But Bartimaeus is.
And his healing story is unique beyond that: this is the only time in Mark Jesus receives the title of Son of David. Bartimaeus knew something and as he called out for him, then ran to him, and threw off his cloak - as if to shed something of a former life - Jesus asked what he wanted him to do for him.
What a question!
As you begin this Sunday and as you go to worship with Christ’s Church today, could you dare to hear Christ’s question as if it is for you?
What do you want me to do for you?
(It is for you.)
Mark 10:46-52
Jesus and his followers came into Jericho. As Jesus was leaving Jericho, together with his disciples and a sizable crowd, a blind beggar named Bartimaeus, Timaeus’ son, was sitting beside the road. When he heard that Jesus of Nazareth was there, he began to shout, “Jesus, Son of David, show me mercy!” Many scolded him, telling him to be quiet, but he shouted even louder, “Son of David, show me mercy!”
Jesus stopped and said, “Call him forward.”
They called the blind man, “Be encouraged! Get up! He’s calling you.”
Throwing his coat to the side, he jumped up and came to Jesus.
Jesus asked him, “What do you want me to do for you?”
The blind man said, “Teacher, I want to see.”
Jesus said, “Go, your faith has healed you.” At once he was able to see, and he began to follow Jesus on the way.
Psalm 46
God is our refuge and strength,
a help always near in times of great trouble.
That’s why we won’t be afraid when the world falls apart,
when the mountains crumble into the center of the sea,
when its waters roar and rage,
when the mountains shake because of its surging waves. Selah
There is a river whose streams gladden God’s city,
the holiest dwelling of the Most High.
God is in that city. It will never crumble.
God will help it when morning dawns.
Nations roar; kingdoms crumble.
God utters his voice; the earth melts.
The Lord of heavenly forces is with us!
The God of Jacob is our place of safety. Selah
Come, see the Lord’s deeds,
what devastation he has imposed on the earth—
bringing wars to an end in every corner of the world,
breaking the bow and shattering the spear,
burning chariots with fire.
“That’s enough! Now know that I am God!
I am exalted among all nations; I am exalted throughout the world!”
The Lord of heavenly forces is with us!
The God of Jacob is our place of safety. Selah
Prayer
God,
There are many ways by which we hear the message that we can’t, shouldn’t, won’t.
Help me instead to hear your voice of affirmation that in your life and power, I can.
By your spirit & in Christ,
Amen.