He came to the outskirts of Jericho. A blind man was sitting beside the road asking for handouts. When he heard the rustle of the crowd, he asked what was going on. They told him, “Jesus the Nazarene is going by.”
He yelled, “Jesus! Son of David! Mercy, have mercy on me!”   (Luke 18:35-37, MSG)

Time and time again throughout Jesus’ life story written for us in the Gospels we see the outcasts, the marginalized being silenced or pushed to the background …but Jesus takes notice and brings them out of the shadows and into the foreground.  In an instant everything changes. 

This week our encounter takes place as Jesus and his disciples were heading up to Jerusalem to celebrate the Passover.  It is another remarkable story of faith on the part of the blind beggar.  It is a story of restored vision, both physically and spiritually!  You can read his story in Luke 18:35-43.

There is something about this encounter that surprises me every time I read it.  There is more to this interaction with Jesus and the blind man then a simple restoration of his sight.  It is deeper than just another healing story found in Luke.  It is about faith, and about vision, but not only that of the blind man but also of the disciples and followers of Jesus.  

The disciples have often missed what was right before their eyes.  They didn’t fully grasp Jesus’ teachings or the magnitude of his miracles or even all he told them of his impending death.  Yet, the blind beggar knew who Jesus was and what he could accomplish without having eyes to see the miraculous for himself. 

So here are a few thoughts for us to ponder…How often do we miss seeing God at work?  How often is our vision blurry when it comes to matters of faith?  How can we improve our insight to truly see Jesus in our midst?

Blessings,
Pastor Jenni

Jesus said, “Go ahead—see again! Your faith has saved and healed you!” The healing was instant: He looked up, seeing—and then followed Jesus, glorifying God. Everyone in the street joined in, shouting praise to God.
  (Luke 18:42-43, MSG)