Saturday 16 March 2019

Psalm: Psalm 99

Background

The two men at the centre of this healing story cannot physically see Jesus but still attribute greatness to him in the title "Son of David". Matthew himself attributes this title to Jesus in the very first verse of his Gospel (Matthew 1:1) and then provides a lengthy lineage to prove Jesus’ link to King David, giving the strongest hint that he is the Messiah, the promised one ‘in the line of David’.

Jesus asks the two blind men if they believe he can heal them. A curious question, but one that suggests the need for each of us to make a response to the offer of Jesus in our lives. It makes the difference here since "their eyes were opened" (v. 30). The physical healing is miraculous in itself, but seeing the Messiah for who he truly was (is) is the deeper significance here.

The healed men are sent on their way with express instructions to tell no one. Perhaps Jesus is keen that he has time to exercise his ministry before antagonising the authorities who he knows are not happy with his actions. But who wouldn’t want to share the good news that the Son of David has just restored your sight?

To Ponder:

• What do you really believe God can do for you?
• What has God done for you that you are keeping quiet about? Could you share something of this good news with a friend or colleague today?