Message from the chaplain: 22 November 2019

Claudia Coustas

As [Jesus] approached Jericho, a blind man was sitting by the roadside begging. When he heard a crowd going by, he asked what was happening. They told him, “Jesus of Nazareth is passing by.” Then he shouted, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” Those who were in front sternly ordered him to be quiet; but he shouted even more loudly, “Son of David, have mercy on me!” Jesus stood still and ordered the man to be brought to him; and when he came near, he asked him, “What do you want me to do for you?” He said, “Lord, let me see again.” Jesus said to him, “Receive your sight; your faith has saved you.” Immediately he regained his sight and followed him, glorifying God; and all the people, when they saw it, praised God.
− Luke 18:35-43 (NRSV)

It strikes me that Christ did not assume what the man needed from him; Jesus created the opportunity for the man to put his need in words and to be heard. It also strikes me that the man knew what Jesus could do; the man did not ask Jesus for food or for money, but instead asked for a miracle. This also explains why the man was so adamant that Jesus should hear his cry. Similarly, Christ does not assume what we need, but gives us the opportunity to put it in words. We do so in faith, knowing the full identity of Christ who listens.

Revd Claudia Coustas

Chaplin

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