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Scripture: Luke 18:35–43 (Key verse: v.40 – “Jesus stopped and ordered the man to be brought to him.”)

Have you ever felt invisible—like your voice didn’t matter? Bartimaeus, a blind beggar on the road to Jericho, lived this reality every day. Pushed to the margins, told to stay quiet, he dared to cry out to Jesus for mercy. And when others tried to silence him, Jesus did something remarkable: He stopped.

In the noise of the crowd, Jesus heard the one voice everyone else ignored. He didn’t rush past or offer a quick word. He stopped, asked what Bartimaeus needed, and truly listened. That moment of attentive compassion changed everything—Bartimaeus regained his sight and followed Jesus with joy.

God still stops for us today. When we cry out in prayer, when we feel unseen or unheard, divine love leans in. And God calls us to do the same—to stop, listen, and pay attention to those around us whose voices are often drowned out.

Reflection Question: Who in your life might feel like Bartimaeus—overlooked or unheard?

Action Step: Pause at least once today to give your full attention to someone who needs to be heard.

Prayer: Listening God, thank You for stopping to hear the cries of our hearts. Teach me to listen like Jesus—to stop, notice, and respond with compassion. Amen.