Healings Galore
Jesus keeps granting new life to people in seemingly helpless situations.
There’s been a lot of healing going on. In chapter nine, six individuals are accounted for in Jesus’ healings. These two men who can’t see are persistent in their quest to be healed by Jesus.
Show us mercy.
This is a pretty powerful request. It’s the request of someone in desperation. One would only ask for mercy if he knows that he needs it. This isn’t about finding a parking space or getting a particular job or a mortgage. Indeed, it isn’t even really about receiving sight. Today, many people who cannot see are still able to navigate life thanks to advancements in society surrounding what have been called disabilities. But in 1st century Galilee, blindness likely had wider ramifications than being unable to see.
So they were persistent. And who could blame them?
Matthew 9:27-34
As Jesus departed, two blind men followed him, crying out, “Show us mercy, Son of David.”
When he came into the house, the blind men approached him. Jesus said to them, “Do you believe I can do this?”
“Yes, Lord,” they replied.
Then Jesus touched their eyes and said, “It will happen for you just as you have believed.” Their eyes were opened. Then Jesus sternly warned them, “Make sure nobody knows about this.” But they went out and spread the word about him throughout that whole region.
As they were leaving, people brought to him a man who was demon-possessed and unable to speak. When Jesus had thrown out the demon, the man who couldn’t speak began to talk. The crowds were amazed and said, “Nothing like this has ever been seen in Israel.”
But the Pharisees said, “He throws out demons with the authority of the ruler of demons.”
Prayer
God,
It’s Monday. Some people don’t like it, but I’ve always kind of liked the fresh start to the work week. I suppose I am privileged in being able to enjoy jobs that I love. That probably makes it easier. And I’m absolutely sure I’m privileged that I’ll come home to a warm house and food in the fridge/on the table. So I’m not trying to make myself sound special or anything.
But I do like Mondays. Help us all on this one, Lord. Make our efforts worthwhile, especially when they don’t seem to be getting anything done. Give us steady reminders of your presence with us all day long. Open our ears, eyes, and hearts to all in need, be the need a simple smile or something more pragmatic, be the individual myself or those around me. Help me to notice the sun, light, food, nature, the grace of small moments, and opportunities of mercy and love.
By your spirit & in Christ,
Amen.