Bartimaeus was poor in many ways. He knew his need was great, and that Jesus was the only answer. Bartimaeus’ title of Jesus as “Son of David” (Mark 10:48) is a declaration that he believed Jesus was the Messiah, the promised Savior, and he cried out to Him. He was not too proud to beg, literally for Jesus’ help. Jesus responded quickly to Bartimaeus, healing him and commending his faith.

Jesus gives us a piercingly clear explanation of who He is in Mark 10:45 that we read today. Jesus came to serve and to give His life as a ransom for many (Mark 10:45). Yes, He taught. Yes, He healed. But Jesus’ purpose was central: to serve and give His life.

It is not easy to forget the epic moments in movies where one hero is leading the charge into battle. A movie with a good monologue that is followed by an amazing score, causes us to watch in admiration.

When it comes to money, and being wealthy, a couple of factors might help us have the right perspective. First, the average annual global income is $3,358. Second, you don’t have to be rich to be a lover of money, so this passage is for all of us. 

I recently read the story of a woman that challenged me. After the humble beginnings of traveling across the country with only a sack lunch and the hopes of attending a Bible college in California, this woman ended up graduating from that college, meeting her husband, and taking part in a very challenging ministry that took place all over the world.