Of course, for most of us, most of the time, our motives are mixed. Where we, like the disciples, are tempted to seek our own position, prospects, promotion, pay and popularity, Jesus says four words to us: ‘Not so with you’ (v.43). We are called to serve because it is the pattern of Jesus to serve.
The clothes of authentic discipleship are not the purple robes of an emperor, but the crown of thorns of our Saviour. It is about a cross, not a throne. It is a life laid down for others.
Let’s follow the example of Bartimaeus who cried out to Jesus for mercy (v.47). Jesus always responds when we cry for mercy. Bartimaeus asked for his sight. His eyes were opened and he saw Jesus.
Ask God today to open your eyes to see Jesus and understand all that he has done for you through his death on the cross for you.
My experience was similar to that of blind Bartimaeus. My blindness had not been physical but spiritual. Like him I cried out, ‘Jesus… have mercy on me’ (Mark 10:47–48). I received my sight and followed Jesus. It was not something I earned. It was a gift I received by faith, just as Jesus said to Bartimaeus, ‘Go… your faith has healed [saved] you’ (v.52).
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