Jesus asked the man, “What do you want me to do for you?” He answered, “Teacher, I want to see again” (Mark 10:51, ERV)
In his book P.R.O.S., Chris Hope, former American football safety in the NFL, shared a story I’ve heard before:
“The story was about two men who both had an issue — a very legitimate issue … The first man complained and fussed about not having any shoes to wear, and he exclaimed to every person he met how God did not love him. Until, he met the other man who did not have any shoes to wear, and, more importantly, was born without feet”(pp. 76-77).
I shared that excerpt to remind you that no matter how bad your situation seems, it could be worse. No matter how life is treating you, you still have something to be thankful for.
As I read Mark 10:46-52, the Holy Spirit shared some nuggets that may help you frame even the worse situations differently. Bartimaeus was blind, a legitimate condition that could have affected his outlook, yet he possessed other things that warrant gratitude:
- AMAZING OUTLOOK: Although he was blind, Bartimaeus had vision of better. He envisioned sight before he experienced it!
- ALTERNATIVE OPPORTUNITIES: Although he couldn’t see, other parts of his body were highly productive. Bartimaeus could talk and walk.
- ACCESS TO THE OMNIPOTENT: He had access to Jesus, our omnipotent Savior. If you have Jesus, you have all you’ll ever need!
Now, let’s bring it home. Perhaps you’re down because you don’t have all you want. Bartimaeus is a witness: you may have all you need. Don’t let a deficit mindset keep you from enjoying this time of the year. Instead, focus on what you do you have. If you do, I decree and declare that you’ll find something to be thankful for.