As Jesus is journeying towards Jerusalem, knowing he will be rejected and killed by his people, his teaching focuses on one key issue: Who will be a part of the kingdom that he is ushering in? As he approaches Jericho a blind beggar exemplifies exactly what it takes to be saved and to be part of God’s kingdom: he cries out to Jesus in faith. He recognises Jesus as the son of David, a messianic title, and he perseveres despite the rebukes of people as Jesus had encouraged in his parable of the persistent widow (18:1-8). As a result, he was given back his sight. This wasn’t just a miracle; it was a sign. The disciples were at this time perplexed about Jesus’ talk of his impending death. We are told that “its meaning was hidden from them” (18:34). Our dependence is so complete that we even rely on God to form within us the faith that will enable us to see, understand and trust in Christ. It is truly said by Paul that we are saved completely by grace through faith “and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast”. (Ephesians 2:8-9). Those who are “dead in…transgressions” (Ephesians 2:1) cannot make themselves alive, for they are also spiritually blind “so that they cannot see the light of the gospel” (2 Corinthians 4:4). How then can anyone be saved; it seems impossible. But remember what Jesus had just said: “What is impossible with man is possible with God” (18:27). So, keep praying for your unbelieving friends and family!
Pray for your unbelieving friends, family, neighbours and work colleagues, that God would open their eyes.
Read Luke 18:31-43
