THE SET UP
“What do you want?” Seems like a simple question. But when Jesus asks the man blind beggar it seems a little rhetorical. Did Jesus not know this man was blind? Wouldn’t He assume that what the blind man wanted was to see? Did Jesus sense a greater need in this man than vision? Whatever it was, the man was determined to talk to Jesus and Jesus was willing to talk to him, so He asked, “What do you want me to do for you?” The man’s answer was simple and straightforward, “I want to see!” And Jesus healed him. But why the question? I think, and this is my take, not a Gospel fact, Jesus wanted the man to articulate his need. He wanted to hear him voice his need, but also declare his faith. The man could have told everyone else around him that he wanted to see and would have still remained blind. They may have offered to pray for him or put a few coins in his cup, but only Jesus could give the man what he really wanted. So Jesus asked and the man declared it. Not only did Jesus open the beggars eyes, He opened the eyes of the crowd as well.
PASSAGE TO READ
Luke 18:31-43 (Page 630 in our house bibles)
REFLECTION QUESTIONS
If Jesus were to ask you the question, “What do you want me to do for you?” what would you say?
If Jesus already knows our needs, why do you think He asks us to pray and tell them to Him?
What do you think Jesus’ interaction did for the beggar, besides restoring his sight?
PRAYER IDEA
Jesus asks, “What do you want me to do for you?” Take time in prayer to answer that question. Before you pray that prayer, answer this question: “If Jesus said yes to my prayer, what difference would it make?” May that lead you to pray bigger and more significant prayers.