A large crowd was following Jesus and his disciples when they were near Jericho. A blind beggar named Bartimaeus (the son of Timaeus) was sitting by the road. When he asked what was going on, a person told him “Jesus the Nazarene is walking by.”
He began to cry out “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” People in the front of the crowd told him to keep quiet, but he began to cry out even more, saying “Have mercy on me, Son of David!”
Jesus stopped and asked that the blind man be brought to him. They called to the blind man and said “Cheer up! Come on, he’s calling for you!” Immediately he flung off his cloak, jumped up and went to Jesus.
Jesus asked him “What do you want me to do for you?”
Bartimaeus said, “Teacher I want to see!”
Moved with compassion, Jesus said “Open your eyes. Your faith has healed you.”
He was immediately able to see and he began to follow him on the road, giving glory to God. Everyone who saw this happen began to praise God.
MT 20:29-34, MK 10:46-52, LK 18:35-43
