This sermon was preached at Red Rocks Baptist Church (14711 W. Morrison Rd. Morrison, CO 80465) on Nov. 4, 2012 by Pastor Les Heinze. These notes are provided as a recap and for further study into the message from God’s Word.
Please feel free to listen/download the entire audio sermon on mp3 here.
STOPPING FOR COMPASSION
Mark 10:46-52
Genuine compassion is better illustrated than described. A picture of heart-felt concern communicates more vividly than any written description could. Mark 10: 46-52 describes the interchange of Jesus with Bartimaeus, a blind man with little hope apart from a miracle. Viewed through the eyes of our imagination, this incredible, true story yields rich lessons for Bible readers.
Making Time for Compassion
Jesus met blind Bartimaeus on his way up to Jerusalem to begin the most important period of his time on earth. His heart was heavy as he contemplated his fast-approaching betrayal, crucifixion, death, and resurrection. He was focused because he was truly ‘on a mission.’ And yet, when Bartimaeus called to Jesus Christ out of his need, our Lord stopped, set aside his own cares, and met the need of a soul. Jesus probably did not have the time to minister to this blind man, but in spite of the protestations of others, he made time. For that moment, Bartimaeus was the most important thing in Christ’s schedule, and he gave no indication of hurry. For now, it was just Jesus, Bartimaeus, his need, and the opportunity to minister to him.
Does the phone call from a person in need ever come to you at a very inconvenient moment? What about the “Do you have just a minute?” question that always seems to come when you really don’t? Do you respond as Jesus did?
Using Every Resource for Compassion
Jesus understood the importance of meeting the needs of others. His genuine compassion was manifested in his response to the individual need of Bartimaeus. Our Lord had not only the desire, but also the ability to meet Bartimaeus’ need. We see no hint of a half-way measure. Fully and completely, Jesus did for the blind man what he needed – he healed him.
We certainly don’t have the resources at our disposal that Jesus did, but what God does expect of us is to do what we can. Not the impossible, but certainly to use what is at our disposal. Whether it is time, money, encouragement, counsel – do what you can. When you help in such an unselfish way, the “Well done, good and faithful servant,” from God will be all the reward you need.
Red Rocks Baptist Church exists “to know Christ and to make him known.” We will do whatever we can to assist you in your walk with God. Please do not hesitate to contact our local Denver church.
