Mark 10:46-52
Among the synoptic Gospels, only St. Mark's version reveals the disciples' urgent summons to the blind man Bartimaeus, on behalf of the Master, to come forward in two steps followed by a compelling explanation for the urgency.
Step one: Take courage! The Greek word translated as 'take courage' (tharseó) has multiple denotations. They include the notion of a courage that is unflinching while exuding a warm-hearted confidence.
Step two: Get up! Here the Greek word (egeiró) can also be translated as 'arise' or 'awaken.' If we haven't been responding to His call, it is now time to "wake up!"
For what reason? Because "Jesus is calling you!" What more could we ask than to be summoned, personally, to enter the presence of the Son of God?
To whatever God calls us at this particular point in our lives, be it to make a change for the better in holiness, or to arouse the courage (a gift from God) to do something we know in our hearts we must do, let us respond as Bartimaeus responded.
Let us throw aside our cloak (excess baggage holding us back) and immediately enter the Lord's presence. We will instinctively know what to do, as we follow Him "on the way" with full confidence and with eyes wide open!
Father Ed Bakker
Anglican Catholic Church / Original Province
Mission of Saint Aidan of Lindisfarne
Bendigo - Australia
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