Mark 8:22-25

22 They came to Bethsaida, and some people brought a blind man and begged Jesus to touch him. 23 He took the blind man by the hand and led him outside the village. When he had spit on the man’s eyes and put his hands on him, Jesus asked, “Do you see anything?”

24 He looked up and said, “I see people; they look like trees walking around.”

25 Once more Jesus put his hands on the man’s eyes. Then his eyes were opened, his sight was restored, and he saw everything clearly.

(NIV)

Contemplation:

Jesus took the blind man outside the village.  While there are probably some practical reasons for this, Jesus takes this man away from the ordinary noise and activity of his surroundings in order to heal him.  There are times in our lives that God has to get us alone, free of distractions and encumbrances to do His work in us.  In this place, all of our senses are fixed on Him and we become attentive to his movement.

Once outside the village, Jesus proceeds to heal the man in two stages.  The first time he puts his hands on the man, he can see, but not with complete clarity.  The second time, he finally can see clearly.  We are like the blind man in our eagerness to see God work.  We things to be done instantly.   Sometimes God gives us a portion initially, but withholds a portion as well.  He knows that the second movement will come when he has cultivated in us a patient heart and a willingness to do things His way.  He knows when the time is right and we are ready.  

It is too easy to take the vision God has given us and run ahead of him.  When we tarry, we allow him to fully prepare us for the place he will send us into.

Question:

Am I allowing God to refine my vision by waiting for Him to complete His work in me?

Prayer:

God grant me the patience to remain with you until your work is complete in me.  Let me follow you to the place where I can be alone with you and hear your voice.  Let me set aside distraction and worry about the future.  Let me wait on you until I have clarity.  Let me move as I am moved by you and not by my circumstances.  Give me clear vision when I am alone in your presence.