Short story (easy to remember)

Two blind men sat by the roadside near Jericho. When they heard that Jesus was passing by, they shouted, "Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on us!" People told them to be quiet, but they shouted louder. Jesus stopped, called them, asked what they wanted, and they said they wanted to see. Jesus touched their eyes and healed them. Because of their faith and persistence, they received sight and followed Jesus.

Characters & Scene

• Bartimaeus (and another blind man): Beggars, depended on others, at the roadside.
• Jesus: Compassionate, powerful, stops to help the needy.
• Crowd: Tried to silence the men at first, but then helped them to Jesus.
• Place: Jericho — a busy town on a route to Jerusalem.

Key lessons (what we learn)

• Faith matters: Bartimaeus believed Jesus could heal him and that faith brought his healing.
• Persistence is important: He kept calling even when people told him to be quiet.
• Jesus cares for the poor and needy: He stopped for someone society ignored.
• Names and titles: Calling Jesus "Son of David" shows trust in His Messiahship.
• Response of a healed person: He followed Jesus — healing leads to new life and discipleship.

Kenyan context — how this fits our lives

In Kenya many people in towns and along roads are poor or begging. This story teaches us to care, not ignore them. As students you can:

• Show respect and kindness to those who are different or poor.
• Help in practical ways — share a meal, offer school supplies, or tell your teacher about someone who needs help.
• Keep praying and asking God for help — don’t give up when things are hard.

Classroom activities (age 13 friendly)

1. Role play: Students act the story (one as Jesus, one as Bartimaeus, crowd). Focus on persistence and faith.
2. Discussion: Why did people try to silence Bartimaeus? Was it right? What would you do?
3. Art task: Draw a simple before-and-after picture of Bartimaeus: sitting blind, then seeing and following Jesus.
4. Service idea: Plan a simple class collection for a local charity or help clean a community area.

Memory verse & reflection

Questions for thinking or homework

• What does shouting "Son of David" tell us about Bartimaeus’ faith?
• How can we show compassion to people in our neighbourhood who need help?
• Have you ever asked persistently for something important? What happened?
• How does healing change a person’s life besides giving them sight?

Short prayer (for class use)

Lord Jesus, help us to have faith like Bartimaeus. Teach us to be kind to those who need help and to never stop asking for your mercy. Give us courage to follow you. Amen.