Luke 18:35-43

content/bible_journal/luke_18:35-43.md

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+title = "Luke 18:35–43"
+date = "2023-01-16"
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+
+### [Read the passage.](https://biblia.com/bible/esv/Lk18.35-43)
+
+As Jesus continues to Jerusalem, he enters the city of Jericho. City gates were
+important social centers in ancient times. Beggars would often gather there to
+seek the generosity of travlers in and out of the city. At this particular gate
+into Jericho there was a blind man (named Bartimaeus in Mark's account, but
+Matthew's said there were two blind men) who was able to hear the increase in
+traffic as Jesus approached. Upon learning who was approaching, he starts
+making a scene in the hopes of catching Jesus's attention. Those near him try
+to tell him to be quiet, but he just keeps yelling for Jesus to have mercy on
+him.
+
+Jesus sends for him and asks what he wants. Unsurprisingly, the blind man
+wishes to see again. Clearly he had once been able to see, and he had heard of
+the way Jesus healed people wherever He went. He knew Jesus could help him and
+didn't want to miss this chance. Jesus recognizes the man's faith and rewards
+it. In response, the man praises God and begins following Jesus.
+
+This is how we should all respond to God's mercy. He has made known that He
+provides salvation from the curse of our sin, so we should glorify Him and
+dedicate our lives to Him out of gratitude and love.
+
+* * *
+
+Salvation is found in You alone. Grant us the faith to accept it.