Passage of the Day:
They came to Bethsaida, and some people brought a blind man and begged Jesus to touch him. 23 He took the blind man by the hand and led him outside the village. When he had spit on the man’s eyes and put his hands on him, Jesus asked, “Do you see anything?” 24 He looked up and said, “I see people; they look like trees walking around.” 25 Once more Jesus put his hands on the man’s eyes. Then his eyes were opened, his sight was restored, and he saw everything clearly. 26 Jesus sent him home, saying, “Don’t even go into[a] the village,” Mark 8:22-26.
Reflection:
Today’s passage is one of the most unique healing passages in the Bible. Similar to the woman suffering from a bleeding disorder, all this blind man wanted to do was touch Jesus. This desire came from a first century ungodly belief that if you touched the cloak or robe of a rabbi, you could be healed. To correct this man’s understanding of where healing is derived, Jesus uses his own saliva. Like getting prescription glasses from an eye doctor, Jesus’ first attempt opened his eyes, but his sight wasn’t clear and in focus. The second attempt involved Jesus touching this man’s eyelids as if to massage and rub his saliva to every part of each eye. Similar to the demon possessed man in Mark 5, Jesus wanted this blind man to immediately return to his family, telling them what God has done.
Prayerful Action:
Jesus did not let him, but said, “Go home to your own people and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and how he has had mercy on you.” 20 So the man went away and began to tell in the Decapolis[b] how much Jesus had done for him. And all the people were amazed, Mark 5:19-20.
Setting Clear Boundaries to Live By:
Similar to the paralyzed man in yesterday’s devotion, concerned friends brought this blind man to Jesus. Not only should Christians surround themselves with positive and uplifting individuals, but you also need vocal servants who are looking out for your best interest. Typically, home church groups play this role in your life. These individuals may notice things that you don’t see or realize. Subsequently, the more you get into the habit of meeting in fellowship, Hebrews 10:25, you’re establishing a support group to provide the weekly spiritual therapy that you need.
Song of the Day:
There have been several moments in my life when I’ve become spiritually blind, not knowing where God wants me to be or do. Becoming part of home groups in Delaware and South Carolina has brought clarity to my life, even when my prayers have gone unanswered. Therefore, if you are in need of advice, guidance or therapy, turn to a local church group to help you find your way.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 