People had gotten used to hearing Bartimaeus asking for money. Day after day on the road near Jericho, he probably used the same annoying requests for help from friends and strangers. His begging, after many years, was probably just part of the background noise to most of the people passing by.

But when he heard Jesus was coming, Bartimaeus called out, "Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!" People tried to quiet him down, but Bartimaeus "shouted all the more." He was betting that God's mercy might shine on him that day.

A mother makes a similar prayer request for a daughter who has run away: "Please, God, show her the way home." A father, quietly and consistently, prays at the foot of his bed, asking Jesus to forgive him for harsh words spoken to his son in anger.

Bartimaeus believed Jesus would show him mercy. The blind man who was ignored by others knew that only the Son could meet his need.

And when Jesus called him over, Bartimaeus got more than money. He received a miracle from the Master, who saw the man's faith and gave him sight.

Don't be quiet if people tell you to stop asking the Lord for help. He always hears us, and he wants what's best for us. His answer may be different from what we expect, but in faith we know it will be for good.