Day 24 of Your Journey
Vague Prayers Are Unanswered Prayers
Jesus said to him, “What do you want me to do for you?” (Mark 10:51 ESV).
The setting of this question by Jesus makes it seem almost humorous. A blind man named Bartemaeus has been crying out to Jesus for mercy. Despite attempts to quiet him by those present, he has continued to yell in an attempt to draw Jesus’ attention. When finally he has succeeded, he is brought forward to stand in Christ’s presence.
Imagine the scene. The crowd parts, and shoved before Jesus is a half-dressed, blind beggar. He is obviously blind; he is obviously a beggar. He is probably filthy, and he probably smells terrible. Jesus looks at this pitiful, handicapped man and asks one simple question: “What do you want me to do for you?”
The answer to this question is so blatantly obvious that it almost seems a cruel query on Jesus’ part. Well, of course, he needs to see! Why even ask such a question? What purpose is there in playing with this poor man’s emotions? Just heal him! Right?
The question Jesus asked was not, however, for His own benefit. It was for the blind man’s. Jesus knew his needs better than he himself knew them. Prior to this point, his cry had been, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” But really, what does that mean? It mirrors the kind of prayers we often pray: “Lord, help me be a better Christian.” Again, what does that mean?
So Jesus asks for a specific request. The answer came from the blind man immediately: “That I might receive my sight.” So we too must pray specifically. When we realize how blind we are, it will be easy to call on Him.
Making It Personal
It has been said: “God doesn’t hear prayer; He hears specific prayer.” What, specifically, is your need today? What specific area of your life needs to change? What specific need does your family have? Ask God to intervene.
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