“What do you want me to do for you?” Jesus asked him.
The blind man said, “Rabbi, I want to see.”
“Go,” said Jesus, “your faith has healed you.” Immediately he received his sight and followed Jesus along the road.
Mark 10:51-52 NIV
There are many healing miracles recorded in the gospels, but this is probably my favorite one. Bartimaeus was a blind beggar sitting outside of Jericho, asking for money from those passing by on their way to Jerusalem. It seems clear from the story that he had heard of Jesus and his ability to heal people, and in particular, to give sight to the blind. But would he ever have occasion to meet him?
Jesus was on his way to Jerusalem and the cross when he passed near Bartimaeus. When Bartimaeus heard that it is Jesus passing by he frantically began to call out until Jesus responded to him. Immediately he jumped up and ran to where Jesus was waiting for him. “What do you want from me”, Jesus asked him. Without delay, Bartimaeus responded with “I want to see.” And he received his sight and followed Jesus down the road.
Bartimaeus received his physical sight that day. But I believe he also had his spiritual eyes opened as well. Jesus calls out to those who are spiritually blind; who have been living in darkness all their lives. He calls them to come to him for healing. Some are happy to live in the darkness and ignore his call. But to all who respond to his call, he gives spiritual sight. Come to Jesus, who gives sight to the blind.