God’s Word of Love
Introduction
Luke 18:31-43: Today’s reading begins with Jesus speaking for a third time about his death. As Jesus continues his journey with his disciples, he heals a blind beggar.
Scripture Reading
Jesus Speaks a Third Time about His Death
(Matthew 20.17-19; Mark 10.32-34)
31Jesus took the twelve disciples aside and said to them, “Listen! We are going to Jerusalem where everything the prophets wrote about the Son of Man will come true. 32He will be handed over to the Gentiles, who will make fun of him, insult him, and spit on him. 33They will whip him and kill him, but three days later he will rise to life.”
34But the disciples did not understand any of these things; the meaning of the words was hidden from them, and they did not know what Jesus was talking about.
Jesus Heals a Blind Beggar
(Matthew 20.29-34; Mark 10.46-52)
35As Jesus was coming near Jericho, there was a blind man sitting by the road, begging. 36When he heard the crowd passing by, he asked, “What is this?”
37“Jesus of Nazareth is passing by,” they told him.
38He cried out, “Jesus! Son of David! Have mercy on me!”
39The people in front scolded him and told him to be quiet. But he shouted even more loudly, “Son of David! Have mercy on me!”
40So Jesus stopped and ordered the blind man to be brought to him. When he came near, Jesus asked him, 41“What do you want me to do for you?”
“Sir,” he answered, “I want to see again.”
42Jesus said to him, “Then see! Your faith has made you well.”
43At once he was able to see, and he followed Jesus, giving thanks to God. When the crowd saw it, they all praised God.
Today’s Key Verse: Luke 18:42
Jesus said to him, “Then see! Your faith has made you well.”
Reflect
Why did the people tell the blind man to be quiet (verse 39)? What did the blind man ask of Jesus? What is the role of faith in this story?
Pray
Lord Jesus, you extend your healing grace and salvation beyond the limits of my understanding. Open my mind and heart that I may share your abundant blessings with those most in need of your love. Amen.
Tomorrow’s Reading
Luke 19:1-10: Jesus visits with a tax collector.