crucifixion and healing

Good morning brothers and sisters,
We're moving steadily towards the climax of Luke's Gospel as Jesus and the disciples keep coming closer to Jerusalem. Jesus tells his disciples for the third time that Jerusalem will be the end of the road for his ministry as they know it. This time is the most detailed of his predictions about his death, but still the disciples don't get it. We have to imagine not understanding a message like this one has a lot to do denial.

This prediction is paired with a healing miracle. I remember Carl preaching a powerful sermon on this passage a few months ago. As soon as the blind man hears that Jesus is on his way he knows his chance has come. He shouts out to get Jesus' attention, and he keeps shouting even when people tell him to be quiet. I wonder what would happen in the church if we weren't worried about what people thought about us. What would happen if we didn't feel the need to keep our worship within the bounds of social acceptability? What if we refused to let anyone keep us away from Jesus?

Blessings on your seeking today,
Sam

Luke 18:31-43

31Then he took the twelve aside and said to them, “See, we are going up to Jerusalem, and everything that is written about the Son of Man by the prophets will be accomplished. 32For he will be handed over to the Gentiles; and he will be mocked and insulted and spat upon. 33After they have flogged him, they will kill him, and on the third day he will rise again.” 34But they understood nothing about all these things; in fact, what he said was hidden from them, and they did not grasp what was said.

35As he approached Jericho, a blind man was sitting by the roadside begging. 36When he heard a crowd going by, he asked what was happening. 37They told him, “Jesus of Nazareth is passing by.” 38Then he shouted, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” 39Those who were in front sternly ordered him to be quiet; but he shouted even more loudly, “Son of David, have mercy on me!” 40Jesus stood still and ordered the man to be brought to him; and when he came near, he asked him, 41“What do you want me to do for you?” He said, “Lord, let me see again.” 42Jesus said to him, “Receive your sight; your faith has saved you.” 43Immediately he regained his sight and followed him, glorifying God; and all the people, when they saw it, praised God.