A miracle of Jesus · Part 20 of 20 · 3 min
Bartimaeus Called to Jesus
Beside the road near Jericho sat Bartimaeus. He was blind and asked passing travelers for help.
One day, he heard a crowd. When he learned that Jesus was passing by, he began calling to him.
He asked Jesus to have compassion on him.
Some people tried to make him quiet. But Bartimaeus kept asking for help. His need mattered, even if others did not want to listen.
Jesus stopped and asked them to call him.
Now the people told him to take courage and get up (Take courage; get up, he is calling you.), because Jesus was calling him.
Bartimaeus left his cloak and came to Jesus.
Jesus asked what he wanted him to do for him.
He did not talk about Bartimaeus as though he was not there. He gave him room to express his wish.
Bartimaeus asked to be able to see.
Jesus responded to his trust, and Bartimaeus received his sight.
Bartimaeus could see and followed Jesus along the road.
The place where he had been waiting was behind him now. He walked with the crowd and with new joy.
This story teaches us not to silence someone asking for help.
We can listen before deciding what another person needs. When someone tells us about a difficulty, their words deserve our attention.
We can also help them reach an adult who can care for them.
Jesus stopped when others wanted to keep walking. His attention shows us how much each person matters.
Our miracle series ends here. We can read the stories again and remember what they share: Jesus looks with love, listens, and cares.
With his help, we can share that kindness every day too.
Retelling of Mark 10:46–52.
Supporting reading: The Desire of Ages, chapter 66. On listening to those asking for help. Open the book
Talk about it together
- Trust in God
- Compassion
- Respect
- What did Jesus ask Bartimaeus before responding to his request?
- How might Bartimaeus feel when others tried to silence him?
- How can you make room for someone who is asking for help?
Activity · 2–5 minutes
Listen Before Deciding
A grown-up says, “I need help setting the table.” The child asks, “What do you need me to do?” and listens to the answer before acting. Then switch roles with another simple task. Remember that Jesus listened to Bartimaeus and asked what he wanted him to do for him.
Try it today: I can listen to what another person needs instead of silencing them.
More stories with these values
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