Bible Reflections From Scripture Union Volume OneSample

Blind Eyes and a ‘Seeing’ Blind Man Read Mark 8:14-26 Do you still not see or understand? Are your hearts hardened? Do you have eyes but fail to see, and ears but fail to hear? Mark 8:17b-18a The Pharisees always had trouble with Jesus. They were the religious leaders of their day. It is ironic that while the common people heard Jesus gladly, the religious leaders looked at Him through skeptical eyes. In verses 11-13, we see a picture of the blind eyes of these religious leaders. They wanted a sign from heaven. But these were not honest seekers, who desired to see God work in their lives. If you think about it, this is much the same request that Satan made of Jesus in the wilderness at the start of Jesus’ public ministry. “Turn these stones into bread,” he said, “if You are truly who You say you are.” Jesus told them that no sign would be given to this generation. And with that He rejected these Pharisees. Formal religion can sometimes blind us to the truth of God's word. What a tragic thing, to be rejected by God. But notice that Jesus only rejected those who would not believe. We see a great contrast in the next part of our passage. A blind man came to Jesus and had the faith that Jesus would heal him. The focus is on faith. That is always the focus of what God does in our lives. On this basis the blind man was healed of his blindness. Have you come to Jesus to receive His touch? If you have not, then come today. Do you need another touch from Him? Do not despair. God is the God of the second touch. Come back to Jesus over and over. Allow Him to minister to you.