Saturday 15 March 2025
When he entered the house, the blind men came to him; and Jesus said to them, “Do you believe that I am able to do this?” They said to him, “Yes, Lord.” (v. 28)
Background
This week’s readings draw to a close with a third story of imperfect faith leading to a life-changing encounter with Jesus.
Yesterday, we read how the synagogue leader came in desperation, and the woman came with just a superstitious hope that Jesus could help her. In today’s passage two blind men follow Jesus, calling out to him: "Have mercy on us Son of David!" (v. 27) It’s a title Jesus looks to avoid because of its nationalistic connotations, but nevertheless he responds to them. He asks: "Do you believe that I am able to do this?" When they answer "yes" their sight is restored. (v. 30)
Once again faith is important but it doesn’t have to be a theologically sound one. The synagogue leader was desperate, the woman was superstitious, and the blind men called him by the wrong name. But all their hopes were centred on Jesus and that’s what counted.
Of course, there were many who followed Jesus at the time who did not receive the healing they craved because, while on earth, Jesus couldn’t be everywhere at once. And equally we will be able to name many people we know of immense faith who prayed for healing but were not made well.
Christians will continue to struggle with these ‘why’ or ‘why not’ questions until the day of Jesus' return and the establishment of his kingdom on earth, when there will be no more sickness or suffering.
But for now, Jesus urges us to keep on following him, keep on praying to him, and keep on reaching out to him in faith, however deficient and inadequate that faith might be.
The two former blind men just couldn’t follow instructions and immediately went out and told everyone in the region about Jesus. Amazing results followed when they reached out for him and placed their simple faith solely into his hands. Jesus might well ask us the same question: "Do you believe that I am able to do this? According to your faith will it be done to you." (vs 28-29)
To Ponder:
- How do we answer people who pray for healing but do not get well?
- Why do you think Jesus tells the men "See that no one knows about this"? (v. 30)
Prayer
Loving God, help me to be brave enough to pray for others and believe that Jesus is able to bring healing. Amen.
Bible notes author: Sue Moore
Sue Moore is a visiting Anglican preacher on the Methodist circuit in West Norfolk. She is candidating for the role of Distinctive Deacon and together with her husband runs a bereavement support group. They have two greyhounds who keep them fit with plenty of walking.