Jesus asked Bartimaeus, “What do you want me to do for you?”
“Teacher, I want to see again,” Bartimaeus answered.
“Go,” said Jesus. “Your faith has made you well.” At once Bartimaeus was able to see and followed Jesus up the road.
Sunday’s gospel portrays the blind beggar Bartimaeus as an ideal disciple. He hears about Jesus, believes in him, and follows unhesitatingly. Even before Jesus heals his blindness, Bartimaeus throws away his cloak, in which he probably collected the money passersby threw his way. He accepts the call to discipleship before Jesus gives it. He throws off the trappings of a life of begging and signals his readiness to follow Jesus.
What keeps you from throwing off your cloak? Whose lives challenge you to live gospel values rather than work for social status?
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