The Mercy Seat

“Jesus had compassion on them and touched their eyes. Immediately they regained their sight and followed Him [as His disciples].” – Matthew 20:34

The two blind men ignored every obstacle and took all risks to receive healing from Jesus. They knew that only when they had received God's mercy, they could be healed. We did not know what had caused them to lose sight and how long they had been blind. But what we could see was their desperation for a miracle from Christ. Mercy from the Lord was their prayer. Why is mercy the key?

When we read about the mercy seat on the Ark of the Covenant in the Old Testament (Exodus 25:17-22), we will realize that the mercy seat was the centerpiece of God’s heart for Israel and all humanity. Sacrificial blood was sprinkled seven times on the seat for the atonement of our fallen relationship with God. Above the mercy seat, God’s glorious presence was with the people of Israel. From it, God will reveal the Word. The mercy seat is the channel through which man can connect to God, hear His voice, and receive the fulfillment of His promises.

1 John 2:2 is a life-transforming verse. Jesus became the atoning sacrifice for us, holy and perfect, once and for all. Jesus has given us free access to the mercy seat. When we connect to it, miracles become possible.

I believe this was what happened in the story of the two blind men. When they asked for mercy from the Lord and declared Jesus was the Messiah, they were connected to this channel, not by the old tradition of using animal sacrifices, but by the sacrificial blood of Christ. Fulfillment is guaranteed because Christ is perfect.

I never doubted God’s healing power. I knew He was more than able. However, I did wonder if God would heal me fully from cancer.

A few days later, I was reminded in my heart that there are things God wants me to finish in this world. He assured me that no sickness could stop His plans because Jesus had paid it once and for all. Because of His blood on the mercy seat, I could take refuge in His power.

Whatever sufferings we may face in life, they are not from the Lord. God always desires to free us from hardships. He gives good and perfect gifts for His children. When Jesus Christ said, “It is finished”, the promise was sealed forever.

God wants to heal you and me. Be it spiritual or physical healing we need, we can come to the Father. May we be steadfast witnesses of His divine power and fully live out each day according to His purpose for us.

Christ is our Mercy Seat and in Him we find rest.