People, as a whole, seem to struggle with the concept of authority. Maybe it’s your boss, or a friendly policeman who has pulled you over for speeding. It is our human tendency to justify why we did what we did.

At the beginning of today’s reading, Jesus’ words and actions seem confusing. But if we look closer, he isn’t just reacting like we would when we are hangry. Jesus walked up to a fig tree, when it was not yet in season, and cursed it because it did not have fruit.

This word lowly means humble, of low position. Jesus says He is humble in heart, even when arriving into the city with such fanfare. It must have felt good to be recognized! To be known for who He was! You and I would have treated it like the red carpet or our entrance to the big game, but Jesus remained humble. His motivation was His love for the Father, His love for us, and not His love for Himself. Whether we find our Savior in these pages serving, facing death, or entering the parade of a king, His heart remains the same. He is in humble submission to the Father. 

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.