Revised Common Lectionary (Semicontinuous)

²³ There needed to be a large number of Levitical priests, since they stop holding office at death. ²⁴ But since he continues as a priest forever, his priesthood is permanent. ²⁵ That’s why he is able to save those who come to God through him, completely and forever—since he always lives to make intercession for them.

²⁶ It was appropriate that we should have a high priest like this. He is holy, without blame or stain, separated from sinners, and elevated high above the heavens. ²⁷ He doesn’t need (like the ordinary high priests do) to offer sacrifices every day, first for his own sins and then for those of the people. He did this once for all, you see, when he offered himself. ²⁸ For the law appoints ordinary, weak, mortal men as high priests; but the word of the oath, which comes after the law, appoints the son, who has been made perfect forever.

Jesus heals a blind beggar

⁴⁶ They came to Jericho. As Jesus, his disciples and a substantial crowd were leaving the town, a blind beggar named Bartimaeus, the son of Timaeus, was sitting by the road. ⁴⁷ When he heard it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to shout out: “Son of David! Jesus! Take pity on me!”

⁴⁸ Lots of people told him crossly to be quiet. But he shouted out all the louder, “Son of David—take pity on me!”

⁴⁹ Jesus came to a stop. “Call him,” he said.

So they called the blind man.

“Cheer up,” they said, “and get up. He’s calling you.”

⁵⁰ He flung his cloak aside, jumped up, and came to Jesus.

Jesus saw him coming. ⁵¹ “What do you want me to do for you?” he asked.

“Teacher,” the blind man said, “let me see again.”

⁵² “Off you go,” said Jesus. “Your faith has saved you.” And immediately he saw again, and he followed him on the way.