“Holy Risk” Sermon Series, Week 3, Ascension Sunday – Rev. Ben Alexander (First Sanctuary)

First Cary UMC’s First Sanctuary Sermon – Rev. Ben Alexander– May 17, 2026

The Risk of Asking for Help: Courage to Receive
In Mark 10, we encounter a blind beggar on the side of the road named Bartimaeus. As Jesus passes, Bartimaeus asks for help and cries out to Christ, even while others try to silence him. “Son of David, have mercy on me!” It’s risky. It’s vulnerable. It’s humiliating. And Jesus honors his courage to ask and trust to receive something that only God can give. Jesus commends his faith and restores his sight. Risking-taking faith means admitting our need for help and trusting God - even when we fear rejection or judgement. What insecurities are blinding us, and how might our faith grow in the risk of asking for help?

Scripture: Mark 10:46-52