Green-Mountain freeman. [volume] (Montpelier, Vt.) 1844-1884, 1882-07-19

better understanding of the real character
OF Jesus than did most of those who cam,
to him. He addresses him by the prope
Scriptural title: Son of David. Man,
Jews might have been addressed as sons
or descendants of David, but Jesus is III
son spoken of in prophecy and general,
expected among the Jews, as one witt
would bring back the old days of prosper
ity and glory such as were enjoyed unde
David. The rich young ruler addresse,
Christ by title such us would beiit
learned rabbi this man knew Christ bet
ter and gave him name far more signifi
cant. The request Of this blind man alst
points him out rs one who knew well how
to ask of Jesus. "llavo mercy on me,
he cried. Christ's mercy comprchcnds al
that VIC need; if he gives us this we have
in that fact pledge Of all other good
His cry was doubtles earnest and repeated
Many Of the multitude, Luke says, those
that wont before, began to rcbukc the
iuhh 'Vl hOiSI W dltIslCl
the attention of Jesus. Nothing will bring
Ccnsurc quicker than manifestations of
great earnestncss in approaching to God.
But the pressing need of this man would
not allow of his remaining quiet. lie only
rced out tho more "llave mercy on me"
We'll might he have been earnest almost
to desperation. lEo most likely had not
met Jesus before and would not pro- ably
meet him again; he could not follow him
and wait some opportunity to geek his
favor moro quietly. The present was his
time and ho was determined not to let the
present slip.
Christ honors such earncstncss ana per.
sistency in seeking him. lie could not
pass on indilterently when such request
was made of him. lie stops short on his
journey and commands the blind man to
be brought to him. Now the multitude
speak in different strain to this blind beg
gar. Christ has singled him out among
all the throng and now invites him to his
immediate presence. Well may the peo.
pie say to Bartimeus, "Be of good COM
fort" He is now the most honored man
in all that company. Such honor is sure
to be bestowed upon all who seek the Lord
in truth. No sooner is the word brought
10 him that Jesus calls him, than he rises
from his beggars' seat, and casting off bis
outer garment he at once hastens to meet
the Great Healer. We come now to one
of the most suggestive incidents in the
ministry of Jesus. Indeed nothing can
surpass in solemn interest the scene when
burdened suffering man draws nigh to his
Savior for help. Jesus asks a question
that was altogether unnecessary, so far as
The blind man was concerned, but it was
necessary to teach us the proper way of
making petitions to him. There could be
title question as to what the blind man
wanted most, or as to what he would ask
when we remember his evident under
standing of Christ's mission. But Jesus
wanted to present us an example of direct
md simple prayer, Or asking of him.
lie may have sought also to test the de.
gree of faith this stranger had in him.
'esus asked, What wilt thou Two of his
most favored disciples had little before
'rought request to him and were deniod.
n this case the very question of Jesus
arrles with it the pledge that the request
referred shall be granted. The real diff
ference in the two cases was in the spirit
which promoted the petition. In one case
elf and personal cmoumcnt in honor and
ignity were sought, while in this case
uman suffering gandwoc appealed to Christ
or alcViation. The prayer offered is in
very sense n pattern for US. No waste
t phrases or of formed titles, but simple.
ovcrcnt, direct: LORD, that might re.
Give my sight" Frank, straight forward,
Glowing beyond n doubt, never was
ctition put up in this way refused. Christ
poke the potent word, and soon the sight.
'ss bcggar OF Jorieo follows rciuicingly +,
mong tho disciples Of Dlyd's SON The i
'ssons of this passage are numerous aud
Take the first opportunity to
ppcal to Christ. lot 10 rcbuko from
hers hinder you. Opposition to your .
1mIng to Christ is always opposition to !
our best interest. Having found healing
the hand of Jesus, dedicate your rcstor. ,
/ powers to his service and follow him in /,
lie way. =