The encounter between Jesus and Bartimaeus, the blind beggar, in Mark 10:51-52 is one of faith, grace, and transformation. When Jesus asks Bartimaeus, “What do you want me to do for you?” his response is simple yet profound: “Rabbi, let me recover my sight.” Jesus acknowledges his faith, grants his request, and tells him, “Go your way; your faith has made you well.” Immediately, Bartimaeus receives his sight. But rather than departing, he chooses to follow Jesus on the way.
This moment speaks volumes. Bartimaeus was not just physically blind; he was also a man of great spiritual insight. Despite his affliction, he recognized Jesus as the Son of David, the promised Messiah. Many who were physically able to see failed to grasp this truth, yet Bartimaeus perceived it clearly. And when Jesus healed him, he didn’t simply accept the miracle and go his own way—he chose the path of discipleship.
The Response to Grace
Jesus placed no obligation on Bartimaeus. He didn’t require service, commitment, or repayment. This is the essence of grace—freely given, without condition. Yet, Bartimaeus responded in the only way that made sense to him: he followed Jesus. This is the true mark of transformation.
Many people experience moments of divine intervention—answers to prayers, miracles, unexpected blessings. Some take what they receive and move on, grateful but unchanged. Others, like Bartimaeus, allow the grace they’ve encountered to reshape their lives. They follow Jesus, not because they are required to, but because they desire to.
Grace in Action
This truth was profoundly illustrated to me during my first trip to Africa, where I witnessed the tangible power of God’s grace and the response it elicited in those who encountered it.
One of the most memorable moments took place in Pienaar, Mpumalanga, South Africa, at an outreach at Shammah Tabernacle. On the first night, Pastor Simon Buthelezi took me to visit the nduna (local chief), who suffered from severe gout. He welcomed us warmly, and after praying for him, I invited him to the services. Though he declined, his wife attended faithfully, and we prayed for her multiple times.
Each night, the services intensified as many came to Christ. On Sunday morning, a young girl—almost completely blind and deaf—was brought forward for prayer. God restored both her sight and hearing. From that moment on, one after another, people came forward, and God was faithful to heal. Later that night, the nduna, now dressed in full ceremonial attire, attended the service. He later informed us that his gout was healed and his wife had also received healing. Overwhelmed by what he had witnessed, he asked us to return as soon as possible.
Another outreach took place at Jesus is Lord Christian Revival Church in Salubinza. Pastor Stanford Mamize shared how his congregation, including women and children, had spent two weeks leveling the ground and preparing a tent for the meetings—without machinery, only their hands and faith. Their expectation was met with a mighty move of God. Hundreds gathered, some walking miles and standing in the rain for hours, eager to receive from the Lord.
One of the most heartbreaking yet powerful moments occurred when a word of knowledge identified those suffering from deep suicidal depression. Among them were young children, some as young as seven or eight. One little girl, crushed under the weight of years of abuse, could not even lift her head. As we prayed, she collapsed, weeping as God released her from her oppression. It was a moment of pure grace, transforming a life broken by pain.
Seeing Beyond the Physical
Blindness can be a physical ailment, but there is also a spiritual blindness that prevents people from seeing truth, grace, and the beauty of a life surrendered to God. Bartimaeus saw more clearly than many who had perfect eyesight—he recognized the Savior and followed Him.
Today, Jesus is passing by. The choice is ours: ignore Him, receive a blessing and go our own way, or follow Him and be transformed by grace. What will your response be?