May 5

Mark 10:46-52 (Click to see scripture)

Bible in One Year Passages:

Journal Entry

Scripture

Mark 10: 48-49 And many rebuked him, telling him to be silent. But he cried out all the more, "Son of David, have mercy on me!" And Jesus stopped and said, "Call him." And they called the blind man, saying to him, "Take heart. Get up; he is calling you."

Observation

A great crowd along with the disciples followed Jesus. People would have found Jesus fascinating, profound and interesting. Some considered him a prophet, a teacher and even the savior. When they were interrupted by a blind man calling out to Jesus, many rebuked him and wanted him to be silent. He was a disruption and a nuisance. Even if he may have been pitied, some may have thought that he should not bother Jesus. When Jesus stopped and called for him, then they gave encouragement to him saying, "Take heart."

Application

This scene is in direct contrast to the one where a paralytic man was brought by his friends. Those friends brough him to Jesus. When their path was blocked, they unroofed the house and lowered him to Jesus. He saw the faith of his friends and healed the man. Here, Bartameus is seeking Jesus but he is rebuked by the crowd, Jesus' followers. They did not have compassion on him or if they did, it did not lead them to his advocacy.

As I think about this scene, I am convicted of my shortcoming. Am I more interested in learning about what I should do for the needy rather than doing it? The people had the opportunity to be the Good Samaritan for this neighbor in need. They could have brought him to Jesus. They could have pleaded to Jesus on his behalf. Instead, they didn't want the disruption. Am I too busy following Jesus to be a Christian? God puts many people in the path of my life and routine. He wants me to to live out my faith and be his hands and feet. I will love God by loving the neighbors he brings into my life.

Prayer

Father, thank you for loving me. Forgive me for being preoccupied with myself. Help me to see others as your precious children and also as my brothers and sisters in need. There are many in our ministry right now who need your healing and provisions. Please be merciful and meet them at their need. Grant complete recovery from injury and restore their joy. Work in me and change me to do your will everyday in small ways.

--Jason Kim