Eyes to See

Scripture is full of statements that seem to contradict themselves. The first shall be last. A Servant King. Strength in weakness. Freedom through bondage. Life from death. One example we see repeatedly is that those who physically cannot see often see the best.

In Mark, we meet Bartimaeus, a blind beggar, who upon hearing that Jesus was coming near, called out to Him, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” Even after being silenced by those around him, he continued to call out to Jesus. He certainly hadn’t witnessed any of Jesus’ miracles with his eyes, but still he could “see” who Jesus was. In another account, when Jesus healed a blind man on the Sabbath, the now-seeing man declared, “If this man were not from God, he could do nothing” (John 9:33). The Jewish leaders, who were educated and very “sighted” in the scriptures, did not recognize Jesus as the Son of God, though He was standing right in front of them.

Later, Saul, who professed to be among the most knowledgeable regarding the law and the prophets, gained true sight only after meeting the Lord and being blinded on the road to Damascus. Ironically, in his blindness he finally saw who Jesus was.

How is your sight? Do you see who Jesus is, or are you blinded by traditions, hurts, or hardships? Jesus told His disciples, “Blessed are the eyes that see what you see!” (Luke 10:23). Ask God to give you sight to see Him clearly.

Pray

Lord, please give me eyes to see. Help me not to be blinded by my past wounds or the security of my education or background. Open my eyes to see my need for You. In Jesus’ name, amen.