Luther Seminary

A daily devotion brought to you by the alumni of Luther Seminary

Friday, October 25, 2024

Mark 10:46-52 (NRSV)

Read Mark 10:46-52 on biblegateway.com

Verse 46They came to Jericho. As he and his disciples and a large crowd were leaving Jericho, Bartimaeus son of Timaeus, a blind beggar, was sitting by the roadside. Verse 47When he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to shout out and say, "Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!" Verse 48Many sternly ordered him to be quiet, but he cried out even more loudly, "Son of David, have mercy on me!" Verse 49Jesus stood still and said, "Call him here." And they called the blind man, saying to him, "Take heart; get up, he is calling you." Verse 50So throwing off his cloak, he sprang up and came to Jesus. Verse 51Then Jesus said to him, "What do you want me to do for you?" The blind man said to him, "My teacher, let me see again." Verse 52Jesus said to him, "Go; your faith has made you well." Immediately he regained his sight and followed him on the way.

Devotion

Most of us are never better at praying than when we’re overwhelmed by fear. Even atheists may find themselves mentally shouting for help. Suffering strips us of our defenses, leaving us with the central questions of life and death. Am I truly alone? Is there anyone that will help me?

The stories of Jesus’ healings are a central part of my faith. I love them more than other parts of the gospels because I know what it feels like to be that sick and afraid, and perhaps you do, too. In the numerous stories of the sick healed of their diseases I see the outpouring of God’s passion to help us. I see God’s renewing power and, most of all, I see love in action.

Beyond all the beautiful words of Jesus that people remember, I hold the healing stories close. “What is it you need?” Jesus asks. Restoration? Of course! Here you go.

Prayer

All around us, O God, we see your creative, restoring power in action. From wounds that heal, to bones that knit themselves back together, we witness your passion for our lives every day. Help us to trust in your deep love for us and all creation, and when we are afraid, draw us close. Amen.

Lynne Silva-Breen ’83 M.Div. Retired, Pastor and Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, Prior Lake, Minnesota


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