(Luke 18:35-43)
Prayer: O Jesus, let me cry out to you in great hope.
Imagination: (Picture Jesus and the crowd with a beggar by the roadside.)
Context:
This journey to Jerusalem began with Jesus healing a blind man and culminates with another healing of blindness. This contrasts with the disciples’ growing blindness about Jesus’ death in Jerusalem. They do not grasp his predictions of his passion. This blind man saw and followed Jesus to Jerusalem.
Gospel Text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud)
As Jesus drew near to Jericho, a blind man was sitting by the wayside, begging. Hearing the crowd go by, the man asked, “What is that?” When he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he cried out, ‘Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me”. The crowd told him to be silent but he cried out even more, “Son of David, have mercy on me.”
Jesus halted and commanded that he be brought near. When he had come close, Jesus asked him, “What do you want me to do for you?” “Lord, I want to see” said the blind man. Jesus said, “Receive your sight, your faith has healed you.” He saw immediately and followed Jesus on the way, giving God the glory. All the people saw this and they, too, gave glory to God.
Thoughts: (Read all. Ponder those that attract you.)
- This beggar is at a severe disadvantage. He is blind, sits by the wayside, and does not even know what is happening.
- However, his blindness prepares him for this moment.
- He grasps quickly that Jesus is his only ray of hope.
- When Jesus summons him, the crowd changes its opinion. His crying out was the right thing to do.
- He knows the desire of his heart – to see again.
- With his sight restored, he sees the face of Jesus.
- His heart tells him to follow Jesus “up the road” to Jerusalem.
- What a day for the beggar! He becomes a disciple who gains the Kingdom.
Affections: (When one touches your heart, use your own words.)
- Jesus, my limitations are really favors. My heart stays with you.
- Lord, come close to me today.
- O Spirit of Jesus, whisper within my soul, “Jesus of Nazareth is passing by.”
- Fill me with hope and I will cry out to you, Lord.
- Jesus, You will hear and you will ask “What is it that I can do for you?”
- Everything, Lord! Bless me and I will “follow you on the way.”
Resolutions: (Possibly you might want to make your own.)
- I will be attentive today to Jesus’ presence.
- I will have great hope that Jesus hears my every prayer.
Thought for the day: (To recall your meditation)
What do you want me to do for you?