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Mark 10:35-52 – What Do You Want Me To Do For You?
He was an outcast. Beggarly poor. Probably uneducated. And yet he saw his need.
They were chosen. Not rich, but better than some. At one time they were professionals, even had employees. They saw what they wanted.
These three asked a fourth man for favors. Now all three believed this other man had the ability to grant their wishes. The one who had a need, having his request fulfilled would help him not be a burden to others. The other two requested power. Power usually leads to burdening others unnecessarily.
The fourth man asked all three the same question – “What do you want me to do for you?”
For the two wanting power, the fourth man did not grant their request. Not surprising considering how ill-timed, selfish, and thoughtless they were. Their friend had just stated for the third time that his future will be filled with what his friends will literally run away from in fear. Despite hearing of their friend’s pain, they demanded, “Teacher, we want you to do whatever we ask you.” Then they stated, “Allow us to sit at your right and at your left in your glory.”
The other one, he got what he requested. Despite the crowd warning him to stay quiet, he didn’t. He knew his need and knew this itinerant preacher could fulfill what could only be dreamed of – sight. He said, “Rabboni, I want to see.”
The writer, Mark, want us to see these stories together because they are placed back-to-back (Mark 10:35-52). Bartimaeus has faith, while the James and John need a warning against tyranny, the abuse of power. Jesus is indignant with His friends, but merciful to the stranger. This contrast is humbling.
Who are we more like? Wanting unselfishly what we need; or needing selfishly what we want? What do you want Jesus to do for you? I need more faith and less me.
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