When Jesus Stopped (Mk. 10:46-52) (Part 2)

1.  FAITH THAT WILL NOT STOP KNOWS WHEN JESUS IS NEARBY AND GETS EXCITED. “When he heard that it was Jesus the Nazarene, he began to cry out . . .” (Mk. 10:47).

Bartimaeus must have thought, “Jesus is nearby. I've heard that He is compassionate, kind and powerful. This is my opportunity!”

Did you sense the presence of Jesus in the sanctuary Sunday? Do you sense His presencr right where you are?  You should be getting excited! Anything can happen when Jesus is present! This could be your moment of breakthrough, deliverance or healing.

2.  FAITH THAT WILL NOT STOP CRIES OUT TO JESUS FOR MERCY. “ . . . he began to cry out and say, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” (Mk. 10:47).

Don't confuse mercy with grace.

• Grace means 'getting what you do not deserve.'
• Mercy means 'not getting what you do deserve.'

Bartimaeus cried out, “Jesus, do not give me what I deserve!” What is it that Bartimaeus did deserve? He deserved to have Jesus walk away! While that sounds cruel, remember that no person deserves to have Jesus stop and extend mercy.

• Mercy is not earned.
• Mercy is not deserved.
• Mercy is not automatic.

Thank God, mercy is not withheld from those who ask for it! “Do not pass me by! Notice me!”

Hymn: “Trusting only in Thy merit,

            Would I seek Thy face;

            Heal my wounded, broken spirit,

            Save me by Thy grace.”¹

In God's House today, or right where you are now, I wonder if anyone needs mercy? If you cry out to Jesus, you will find that His mercy will rewrite your life.

1Crosby, Fanny J. “Pass Me Not.” Hymns of Glorious Praise. Springfield, MO: Gospel Publishing House, 1969. Hymn # 230. Verse 3.