On this Twenty-second Sunday after Pentecost we will be reading from the Gospel according to Mark. This week, we hear the story of Bartimaeus, son of Timaeus, who is blind and must beg at the side of the road. We quickly understand this blind man is shunned by those in his community (they try to silence him as Jesus approaches), yet his faith in Jesus is great. The power of the man's belief in Jesus rests in his faith that Jesus is able to make him whole; the essence of the word Shalom. We will explore the many characters in this story and their relationship with Jesus and Jesus' invitation to "follow me."
Our Scripture passage is found in the Gospel according to Mark. You may find the Scripture lesson by selecting the following link: (Mark 10:46-52).
For continuing study, reflect on these questions (found in the study guide below):
Read the assigned Scripture lesson for this week. Reflect on any words or phrases that you were particularly aware of during your reading? Why do you think the crowd tried to keep Bartimaeus quiet until Jesus called him?
Read the "WHAT..." paragraph in the guide below and reflect on the saving action of Jesus for Bartimaeus. The author describes the full meaning of the Greek word "sozo" - some of the physical dangers present in Bartimaeus' life are more apparent than some of the spiritual dangers. What do you think some of the spiritual dangers were for Bartimaeus?
Read the "WHERE..." paragraph below and reflect on how the story of Bartimaeus speaks to the broader mission of Jesus, as he tries to heal people of their blindness towards God's love and mercy.
Read the "SO WHAT..." paragraph below and reflect on the author's statement, "We need not scold those who have no idea what they want Jesus to do for them...rather, as we call the community to attend to the other's cry for mercy...we obediently gather gather a crowd around what God is doing." How can we serve as God's mercy in our community and in the world?
