What do you want me to do for you?

Mar 11

In Luke 18:35-43 the following story is told of a blind man. “Then it happened, as He was coming near Jericho, that a certain blind man sat by the road begging. And hearing a multitude passing by, he asked what it meant. So they told Him that Jesus of Nazareth was passing by. And he cried out, saying, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” Then those who went before warned Him that he should be quiet; but he cried out all the more, “Son of David, have mercy on me!” So Jesus stood still and commanded him to be brought to Him. And when he had come near, He asked him, saying, “What do you want Me to do for you?” He said, “Lord, that I may receive my sight.” Then Jesus said to Him, “Receive your sight; your faith has made you well.” And immediately he received his sight, and followed Him, glorifying God. And all the people, when they saw it, gave praise to God.”

The question asked by Jesus is such a good one . . . What do you want me to do for you? When recently reading this passage, I stopped and pondered that question. Of course Jesus knew because He is God that the blind man wanted to be healed. By asking the question Jesus provided an opportunity for the blind man to articulate His need. In answer to Jesus’ question the blind man revealed His faith in Jesus to heal Him before a crowd of witnesses. The result was not only the healing of the blind man but also the people who witnessed the miracle giving praise to God.

This question is a good one. In interactions with others, it is easy to assume that we know what the other person wants or needs. That is not always accurate. we can easily misjudge another’s point of need. By asking that question, what do you want me to do for you, we provide an opportunity for the other person to articulate their thoughts thereby providing clarity for everyone.

Jesus demonstrated great skill in handling people. His questions were insightful and probing. We can learn from His example and incorporate similar questions in our handling of people.