This week we continue our worship series with a celebration of Baptism.
Outline for Christian? It’s Complicated.
October 4: rooted in Grace. it’s complicated. Mark 1:9-11
October 11: growing in faith. It’s complicated. Mark 10:17-31
October 18: reaching in love. It’s complicated. Mark 10:35-45
October 25: Baptism. Mark 10:46-52/Galatians 3:27-29
November 1: Deep Commitments Mark 12:28-34
Read Mark 10:46-52. Jesus said to [Bartimaeus], ‘Go; your faith has made you well.’ Immediately he regained his sight and followed him on the way.
This story echoes the ancient rhythm of Baptism. Bartimaeus cries out to Jesus. Some try to prevent Bartimaeus from doing so. But, Jesus invites Bartimaeus to come close. Others in the crowd assist Bartimaeus in coming close to Jesus. Jesus then blesses Bartimaeus and sends him to reach in love.
It seems noteworthy that Bartimaeus throws off his cloak before going to Jesus. What in your life are you carrying around that you might need to throw off?
Jesus does not have Bartimaeus stay on the roadside near Jericho. Instead, Jesus calls Bartimaeus to go. Where is Jesus calling you to go?
We will make our deep commitments to God and one another on Sunday, November 1. Please prayerfully consider how you hope to deepen your commitment to our community of faith and to God in the coming year.