Jesus Has Compassion on the Blind

29As Jesus and his disciples were leaving Jericho, a large crowd followed him. 30Two blind men were sitting by the roadside, and when they heard that Jesus was going by, they shouted, “Lord, Son of David, have mercy on us!”

31The crowd rebuked them and told them to be quiet, but they shouted all the louder, “Lord, Son of David, have mercy on us!”

32Jesus stopped and called them. “What do you want me to do for you?” he asked.

33“Lord,” they answered, “we want our sight.”

34Jesus had compassion on them and touched their eyes. Immediately they received their sight and followed him. (Matthew 20:29-34)

Thoughts: Jesus is able to heal the blind.  He had before.  Why would the crowd tell the blind men to keep quiet?  Maybe they discounted them.  Maybe they thought they were cursed by God (a common way of thinking in that day), and should not even ask for help.  But God in Jesus is full of mercy and grace.  No one should give up hope.  Perhaps they thought Jesus was too busy- or maybe they wanted Jesus' attention and not let Christ give these blind guys any attention.  The blind men were believed and shouted all the louder.
     Jesus heard them, and asked them to specifically define what he wanted them to do.  It is a good thing to be able to name our problem.  Do not assume the obvious.  God wants us to pray and wants us to ask specifically.  

Jesus had compassion.  They were grateful and followed Him after their healing.  It should not be taken for granted.  When Jesus helps you- be grateful- and show that gratitude in following and obedience.  

Prayer: Lord, Help me to see your compassion and have that compassion on others myself.  Let me always be grateful for you, O Lord.