Mark 10:46 Then they came to Jericho. As Jesus and his disciples, together with a large crowd, were leaving the city, a blind man, Bartimaeus (which means “son of Timaeus”), was sitting by the roadside begging.

Whether this is the same incident recorded in Matthew 20 is open to question, but because of Mark recording Peter’s recollections, the name of Bartimaeus is forever famous. Since so few names of people Jesus healed are recorded, I think this is clear evidence that Bartimaeus’ devotion to Jesus wasn’t just a flash in the pan, but continued on past the crucifixion and resurrection. In Sunday School many children learn of “blind Bartimaeus,” but the point is, he didn’t stay blind. He received from Jesus not only physical sight, but spiritual sight as well, following Him as a disciple. Far too often people are blessed by Jesus, even miraculously, and then fade away, focusing on the blessing rather than on the One who blessed them. We are blessed in countless ways, but there is only one Savior. It is somewhat ironic, but good things can distract us from God. When we are busy enjoying life, God tends to become peripheral in our thinking. I have long been convinced that the reason God allows trials in our lives is to remind us that we can’t go it alone, but He is there to help us. That awareness is one of the greatest blessings! My heart says a strong AMEN to Paul’s statement to the Corinthian believers: “For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.” (2 Corinthians 4:17) Jesus Himself cautioned us that we would have troubles, (John 16:33) but they are no big deal when we are in Him, because He is the ultimate Victor. “Christus Victor” has been put down as a theological position because it is “simplistic,” but I think that those who put it down have some growing to do in the area of faith! Bartimaeus knew from experience that even severe trials faded into insignificance, compared to the incredible privilege of a personal relationship with the Son of God, and we need to come to the same position of faith and commitment.

This is of course what I have been growing into my whole life. I declared at age five that I loved Jesus even more than I loved my mother, but that was certainly an infantile love. My love, and particularly my commitment, have grown over the years. I am grateful that even 40 years ago I projected, without saying it in words, that my relationship with Jesus was more important than life, but in many small ways I still violated that commitment. Such violations are becoming fewer and farther between, but I eagerly look forward to the day when nothing will stand between me and my Lord. In the meantime, I need to be active in whatever the Lord shows me He wants me doing, whether in words or physical activity. That He has left me here is proof that He still has work for me to do, and I am to do it with joy, as unto Him.

Father, thank You for this reminder. Thank You for all that You are doing in and around me. Thank You for those who will be here for the service today, and for the meal and cleaning time afterward. I ask for Your clear guidance as the man comes at 4 to talk with us about the condition of the roof, that we would be good stewards of what You have provided, for Your glory. Thank You. Praise God!