“Those who led the way rebuked him and told him to be quiet, but he shouted all the more, “Son of David, have mercy on me!” Jesus stopped and ordered the man to be brought to him. When he came near, Jesus asked him, “What do you want me to do for you?” “Lord, I want to see,” he replied.”

Luke 18:39-41

As Jesus' company approach Jericho, they’re greeted by many who are excited to see Jesus. The buzz of anticipation reaches a blind beggar as the crowds pass by. Intrigued, he asks what’s going on. When he hears that it’s Jesus, the beggar starts to make a massive racket like the people with leprosy whom Jesus met earlier; he seems desperate not to let the opportunity pass him by. Those leading the way rebuke him, telling him to shut up, but the blind man will not stay in his place. He becomes as outrageously loud as he can manage, shouting, ‘Son of David, have mercy on me!’ (vv. 38, 39).

Jesus pauses on the way to the cross, perhaps intrigued by the blind man’s insight into his identity as the one who will claim David’s kingdom. Far from leaving him rebuked and in his place, Jesus commands him to be brought near. The beggar had asked for mercy, so Jesus asks him to clarify what he wants (is it more than coins for food?). The man has the faith to proclaim Jesus as Lord and to ask (literally) that he may see again. Echoing the words that he had quoted in Nazareth, Jesus proclaims recovery of sight for the blind. With sight restored, the man chooses the kingdom and follows Jesus, full of ecstatic praise. Even those who had wanted him to stay in his place join in.

CLOSING PRAYER

Gracious God, help me—and those I love— come to Jesus. Help us to see and testify to the grace and mercy you continually pour out in our lives.

(Edited from Encounter with God)