"And throwing
aside his garment, he rose and came to Jesus. So Jesus answered and said to
him, "What do you want Me to do for you?" The blind man said to Him,
"Rabboni, that I may receive my sight." Then Jesus said to him,
"Go your way; your faith has made you well." And immediately he
received his sight and followed Jesus on the road." (Mark 10:50-52 NKJ)
Isn't it great how
the people gathered around Jesus as he traveled the countryside. When they came
to him, they always came with requests.
Of course, some like
the Pharisees only
wanted to trap him and their requests were skewed by lust. Mothers brought their
children desiring him to bless them. A young, rich man wanted to know the requirements of
discipleship. Peter wanted to know what the reward of
discipleship would be. Jesus wanted his
disciples to understand about his death, burial, and resurrection. James and John
wanted status and position. Bartimaeus simply
wanted to be whole.
I am amazed how
Jesus answered each request. Of course, his replies were not always the ones
desired, but he did reply to their requests. The Pharisees got a
straight-from-the-shoulder biblical reply, with an explanation to his disciples
later. The mothers joyfully watched as he gathered up their children in his
arms and blessed them. The young, rich man was disappointed because the
requirements were more than he was willing to give. Peter was assured of a
reward for his sacrifice. Perhaps Jesus was disappointed because his disciples
were focused on other things and couldn’t understand his mission. James and
John were taught a lesson on servant-leadership. And Bartimaeus received his
sight because of his simple faith.
Mark's narrative
tends to challenge our desires and requests. What would we want the Lord to do
for us? Scriptural understanding? He has the Word. Life direction? He has the
blessing. Requirements for discipleship? He has the prescription. Reward for
your sacrifices? You will not be disappointed. Status and position? He is the
example. Simple needs of life? Your faith in him will make you whole.
Dear Father, thank
you for responding to our requests and concerns. Empower me with both faith and
determination to follow Christ in all his commands. I humbly pray this in the
name of Jesus. AMEN
Are your requests to
God focused on your spiritual growth?
No comments:
Post a Comment