The Gospel in a Nutshell
Scripture Reading — Mark 10:46-52
Throwing his cloak aside, [the blind man] jumped to his feet and came to Jesus.
The expression “in a nutshell” describes an important point that can be shared in just a few words.
Did you notice that in the phrase about Bartimaeus “throwing his cloak aside,” this story includes a very important detail?
Bartimaeus’s cloak was probably his only possession, and he needed it for his meager life. He was blind and could not see what people might toss to him as they passed by, so he would have to spread his cloak on the ground to catch bits of food or small coins that he might receive. Then he could find them on the cloak. In other words, he needed his cloak in order to gather his income. And at night he would wrap the cloak around his body for warmth. It was his bed.
When Jesus called the first disciples, they left everything behind to follow him (Mark 1:16-20; 10:28). Similarly, Bartimaeus leaves his cloak behind as he jumps to his feet to come to Jesus, to have his life changed, and to follow Jesus.
This is the gospel in a nutshell. Bartimaeus leaves his security blanket behind as he comes to Jesus, gains his sight, and follows the Lord into a new life.
Cheer up! Jesus is calling you too!
Dear Jesus, in your mercy and with your grace, please give me new life. Help me to see that following your call is the way to live each day. Amen.
About the author — Douglas MacLeod
Rev. Douglas MacLeod is a church pastor in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He has served as a pastor for over 36 years with five congregations in Michigan and Iowa. He and Cathy, his wife of 40+ years, are grateful for their three children and four grandchildren.
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