Sometimes when reading scripture, a seemingly insignificant word or phrase catches my attention. In Mark 10:46-52, a blind beggar named Bartimaeus hears a crowd passing by. When he learns that it’s Jesus who is passing, he begins crying out to the Son of David for mercy. At first, the crowd rebukes him, but when Jesus shows interest they change their attitude: “Cheer up! He’s calling you!”
Bartimaeus represents all of us. Though we are blind and helpless, he shows us compassion. This wood burning is a modified copy of a sketch I made in response to Mark 10:49. I used a weathered scrap of wood to symbolize Jesus calling us in whatever condition we are in. May the compassion and mercy of Jesus inspire us to “cheer up” as he calls us to himself.
Bartimaeus
By Brad Festen
