The Question: Part 2

As we continue our look at the story of blind Bartimaeus (Luke 10:46-52), we remember that in the previous post, we learned that:

1. Bartimaeus called out to Jesus, not as his last resort, but as his only hope.

2. God’s  heart is moved by persistence. Persistent prayer. Persistent desire. Persistent belief. (Two parables: Luke 18:1-6 and Luke 11:5-8) 

Now, in verse 49, we see Jesus respond to Bartimaeus’ plea. Jesus stopped what He was doing and called for Bartimaeus to come to him. How does Bartimaeus respond?

Bartimaeus leaped up, threw off his cloak and ran toward the sound of Jesus’ voice.

Bartimaeus’ response was eager and immediate.

Many people hear Jesus calling them. Calling them to salvation, or to a deeper, more intimate relationship with him. Why, then, do we delay? Why do we put off until later what Jesus is urging us to do today?

Bartimaeus knew that certain chances only come around one time. He was willing to leave behind the rags of his old life to seize the opportunity of the new. Are we, also, willing to put aside the things that weigh us down or hold us back from living the kind of life God has for us?

Jesus is constantly calling to all of us.

Listen to what God says to us:

“…[P]lease don’t squander one bit of this marvelous life God has given us. God reminds us,

‘I heard your call in the nick of time;

The day you needed me, I was there to help.’

Well, now is the right time to listen, the day to be helped. Don’t put it off; don’t frustrate God’s work by showing up late…” 2 Cor. 6:1-2 (MSG)

“We must work the works of him who sent me while it is day; night is coming, when no one can work.” John 9:4, ESV

“Therefore, since we also have such a large cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us lay aside every hindrance and the sin that so easily ensnares us. Let us run with endurance the race that lies before us, keeping our eyes on Jesus, the source and perfecter of our faith. For the joy that lay before him, he endured the cross, despising the shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” Hebrews 12: 1-2,  CSB

What is your response to His call today?