The Blind Man

Luke 18:35-43

This story starts with the blind man, sitting by the roadside. He is begging. Likely he has done this much of his life. We’re not told. Was he born blind? Was he blinded by an accident? This day, as he sat on the roadside, he heard a multitude of people passing by. Upon inquiring, the blind man learned that Jesus was coming.

He had heard about Jesus! Excited, he cried out; “Son of David, have mercy on me!”

Those around him scolded him, saying; “be quiet!”

The blind man set his resolve as he relentlessly cried out; “Son of David-have mercy on me!”

Then he felt his heart flutter. Something changed. He sensed the crowd stopped. He heard Jesus command that someone be brought to Him.

He felt hands grab his arms, leading him towards Someone. In His presence, his knees buckled, and he fell before the Lord.

“What do you want me to do for you?” Jesus asked the blind man.

“Lord, let me receive my sight.”

“Receive your sight; your faith has made you well.”

Immediately the blind man could see! Scripture says he followed Jesus, glorifying God. It was a contagious joy, as all those who saw this transformed man, gave their praise to God!

What a remarkable story! It got me wondering; if Jesus were to ask me; “What do you want me to do for you?” How would I answer? Would my expectation be big enough to cause transformation in me? Would it cause others to praise God with me? Would it join the archives of miracles that Jesus performs?

Am I as relentless in my search for Jesus, that I cry out in passion, Lord, have mercy on me.

I like to think that the blind man was not going to miss a thing on this day. Perhaps he had been overlooked before, pushed aside, trampled upon. But this day, he would cry out loud enough to be heard and get the attention of our Lord. This day would be different.

What are you waiting for today? Where is your miracle? Imagine Jesus, sitting with you over coffee, (or a venti iced caramel macchiato with extra ice) He looks into your eyes and asks; “What do you want me to do for you?”

Lord Jesus, you are absolutely everything that we need! Grow our faith so that we can live in expectation and joy! Thank you for your Word! Thank you for being a God who wants a relationship with us! We love you and trust you. We pray these things in your precious name. Amen.