Journey With Jesus: 31 Days Devotion From the Gospel of MarkSample

Help us see

Signs and wonders abound in Jesus’ ministry. The people He touched were healed immediately.

But not this blind man at Bethsaida. The first time Jesus touched him, he could only see partially. Jesus had to touch him again before he fully restored his sight.

It’s not that Jesus did not love this man as much as He loved others, nor was He having a bad day at ministry. Rather, the Bible uses the blind man to depict the spiritual state of the disciples. They had only partial insight into who Jesus really was. It would take some time before they could clearly see that Jesus is indeed the Son of God.

Though Peter once proclaimed that Jesus was the Saviour (Messiah), he couldn’t accept that Jesus would have to suffer a terrible death (v31-32). Peter was blinded by his limited perception of the Messiah; he, too, only had partial insight into Jesus’ identity. He was unable to understand God’s plans for mankind.

Similarly, we may not be able to see clearly what God is doing in our lives. Some of us may see it as God’s blessing that our lives are productive, smooth sailing, and carefree. By contrast, we find it hard to imagine that God can bless us through the troubles we face, such as financial difficulty or a tough time at work or school.

Because our sight is blurred, we begin to doubt and question God’s authority and character in times of trouble. Yet He could be using these very situations to test our faith and strengthen us to press on for Him:

Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. (James 1:2-4)

Even when you’re puzzled, will you choose to trust that God knows and desires what’s best for you? Will you allow God to work in your life according to His wisdom, not yours? It’s easier said than done. But it’s possible when we grow in our understanding of Jesus and learn more about His character and deeds through the Bible. Pray that God may help you to see things from His perspective.