Jesus Heals Blindman's Eyesight

Bartimaeus was a blind man who, in order to survive daily at all times of the year, sat "by the roadside begging" (Mk 10:46). He was dependent upon others because he couldn't see and perform normal tasks. Then he heard from around him that Jesus and his disciples were coming by. Undoubtedly he had also heard about Jesus' healing ministry. He himself wanted to be healed so he "began to shout" (Mk 10:47) "'have mercy on me'" (:47). It was not a face-to-face visual contact but rather an audible communication. Jesus heard and replied, "'Call him here'" (:49). "Many were sternly telling him to be quiet, but he kept crying out all the more" (:48). Then when he was called, the crowd reversed themselves saying, "'Take courage'" (:49). Next Jesus asked, "'What do you want Me to do for you?'" (:51). The answer would necessitate boldness. He replied, "'Rabbi, I want to regain my sight!'" (:51). It was not just that he needed a warmer cloak for the winter. He spoke what was really on his heart that was most important to him. Jesus' response was, "'Go, your faith has made you well.'" (:52). "Immediately he regained his sight and began following Him on the road" (:52). What was the source of his faith? Was it his confident shouting for help? Or was it his unashamed belief in being able to receive his sight? Jesus didn't itemize the qualifications and Bartimaeus didn't complete a checklist. Faith comes from in-heart believing.