Contemplative Bible Reading

Matthew 20:31b-34 (New Living Translation)

But they only shouted louder, “Lord, Son of David, have mercy on us!”

32 When Jesus heard them, he stopped and called, “What do you want me to do for you?”

33 “Lord,” they said, “we want to see!” 34 Jesus felt sorry for them and touched their eyes. Instantly they could see! Then they followed him.

Two blind me are by the side of the road. They know Jesus is passing, so they scream for Him to be merciful. The crowd told them to be quiet (see a previous post).

How did Jesus react?

First, Jesus recognized them as real persons. He stopped, looked at them, and spoke with them.

Second, Jesus asked what they wanted. He didn’t assume anything. He didn’t assume they wanted money, food, clothing, revenge against the local crowd that disdained them, etc. He asked.

Third, Jesus touched them with his hands. So many people who are hurting in this world in our time simply want someone to touch them. We often treat our dogs and cats much better than we treat the hurting stranger.

They just want to be treated as Jesus treated these men—as real persons.