They came to Bethsaida, and some people brought a blind man and begged Jesus to touch him. He took the blind man by the hand and led him outside the village. When he had spit on the man’s eyes and put his hands on him, Jesus asked, “Do you see anything?”
He looked up and said, “I see people; they look like trees walking around.”
Once more Jesus put his hands on the man’s eyes. Then his eyes were opened, his sight was restored, and he saw everything clearly. Jesus sent him home, saying, “Don’t even go into the village.”
And this scene directly connects with the other scenes in this chapter. Unlike the religious who demand a sign, because they want Jesus to pass their test, and unlike the disciples who, for whatever reason, won’t ask for Jesus’ help—the people in Bethsaida beg Jesus to touch their friend.
They don’t ask Jesus for his credentials. They simply go to him and beg.
It's interesting that Jesus doesn't put them off, or even sigh. He acts out of compassion.
Think about our world today.
Today, there are still many people demanding proof. We have 2,000 years of history showing over and over the reality of Jesus. Yes, there are people who have done terrible things in the name of Jesus. But that does not erase who Jesus really is.
Today, there are believers who, despite all Jesus has done in their lives, too ofetn try to do things in their own strength. Park of what Mark is doing here is reminding us that Jesus doesn’t leave, instead, he challenges us to believe or trust (just as he did the disciples in the boat).
Today, there are people who in moments of desperation, simply blow past all the obstacles and beg Jesus for help… and he does not sigh… he acts.
Which one of these groups are you in?
- Are you still looking for proof?
- Are you, a follower of Jesus, too embarrassed or stubborn or proud to ask him for help?
- Are you past all that, and are imploring him?
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