Mark 10:50 “and casting aside his cloak, he jumped up and came to Jesus.”

Bartimaeus was a “blind beggar” when he met Jesus, :46 says.  His cloak was undoubtedly one of his few possessions.  It was probably the one thing he always held close to himself.  But when he had the opportunity to meet Jesus, the scripture says here he “cast it aside”.  What was so dear, was cast aside in light of the surpassing greatness of the opportunity to fellowship with the Lord, and the blessing He had to offer.

What a life lesson for us!  How many things are “near and dear” to us, which should be “cast aside” in light of the surpassing greatness of Jesus?

— some of us need to “cast aside” habits and friendships and occupations which are harming our walk with the Lord.  How short-sighted we are, to think that whatever pleasure they offer would be worth the sacrifice of His fellowship?  These should be immediately “cast aside” for the greater joy of knowing and walking with Him. 

— Some of us need to “cast aside” other occupations, which may not be “bad” in themselves, but which keep us from our time with Him: television, books, hobbies or Facebook.  We have the unmatched opportunity to fellowship with Jesus today in prayer and in His word!  How foolish to let those lesser things keep us from Him!

In light of the surpassing greatness of Who He is, and what He has to offer you, why would you not cast all else aside — right now — and run to Jesus?!