Our daily reflections follow the M'Cheyne Bible reading plan, designed for those who want to read the whole Bible in one year. Each reflection focuses on one of the chapters from that day's readings. Darllenwch rhain yn Gymraeg.
Lord, prepare me to receive your word. Clear my mind and warm my heart. Assure me of your loving purposes for me, and speak into my life today.
This is a deeply moving story. It portrays a man who has lost his independence with his sight, who has evidently lost any family he had (otherwise they would have cared for him and he would not have needed to beg), and who is so desperate for a solution to his problems that he offends against every rule of good manners, to the horror of his neighbours.
Jesus is not interested only in polite people. He recognises the man's need and calls him over. But rather than simply assuming he knew what was best for him, he dignifies him with a question: 'What do you want me to do for you?' (verse 51, GNB).
There are a lot of damaged, needy people who don't make easy subjects for engagement with the gospel. They don't fit into our neat categories or tidy theologies. They can be irritating and disturbing – but they need Jesus. And here, Jesus models what all of us want in a friend or a pastor: rather than someone assuming it's obvious what's good for us, we want them to listen, without prejudging what they think we're going to say.
Deep listening leads to deep understanding, which leads to deep ministry.
God, thank you that you listen to the bruised and broken people. Help me to understand as I am understood, and to open my heart to the awkward, needy people who need a friend.
This reflection was written by Mark Woods, Bible Society's Editor
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