Pivotal Prayer Moment

by Vianne Satterfield

Luke 18:35-43 “As Jesus approached Jericho, a blind man was sitting by the roadside begging. When he heard the crowd going by, he asked what was happening. They told him, “Jesus of Nazareth is passing by.” He called out, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” Those who led the way rebuked him and told him to be quiet, but he shouted all the more, “Son of David, have mercy on me! Jesus stopped and ordered the man to be brought to him. When he came near, Jesus asked him, “What do you want me to do for you?” “Lord, I want to see,” he replied. Jesus said to him, “Receive your sight; your faith has healed you.” Immediately he received his sight and followed Jesus, praising God. When all the people saw it, they also praised God.”

Seventeen years ago, I sat at my kitchen table with my open Bible, pen and journal to complete an assignment from a spiritual formation small group. I had learned a different way of engaging with God’s Word. My assignment was to read the Scripture and place myself in the story to experience it by answering questions about my thoughts and emotions concerning my participation in the story. I did not know what to expect, yet I imagined Jesus being with me and asking me, “What do you want me to do for you?” My response to this question surprised me as it elicited a tidal wave of unexpected emotion. I told Jesus, “I want to love and be loved.” This was a pivotal prayer moment that changed me and the direction of my life.

I encourage you to engage with God’s Word with intentionality. Look at the characters of the story and seek to understand the passage from differing points of view. Here are some of my thoughts on this passage of Scripture.

The blind beggar did not let Jesus walk on by. He did not bow to intimidation or a victim mentality. He used his voice to boldly shout for mercy and favor from Jesus. He came near to Jesus as he accepted the invitation to talk with Jesus. The blind beggar answered Jesus’ question with clarity. He knew what he wanted and he made a statement indicating belief and faith that Jesus would do it for him. He received that which he believed Jesus would do for him. He took immediate action by following Jesus and praising God. The blind beggar received transformation, healing and a new direction as he engaged in conversation with Jesus.

I believe Jesus knows all things. He knows what we need and want. Yet, Jesus invites us into conversation and relationship with Him. He draws us near to talk and explore with Him what it is we want and need. He invites us into His Presence.

Jesus could have assumed what the blind beggar needed or wanted. He could have waved His hand and proclaim the miracle over him. He could have dismissed or ignored him. Yet Jesus stopped where He was going. He paid attention to him, he listened and he heard him. Jesus immediately responded with love and mercy to make a way for the blind beggar to receive sight.

Within a year of that pivotal prayer moment, I met and married my soul mate, Rick, who continues to show God’s unconditional love. God prepared me to receive and give love. It began with a conversation with Jesus at my kitchen table. My love story continues as does the conversations with Jesus. I praise God for the ability to give and receive love.

Be careful what you ask for, you may receive it in a way that surprises you.

What do you want Jesus to do for you?