Our Daily Bread: Asking For Help

 The Bible in One Year: Isaiah 17-19/Ephesians 5:17-33

Today's Reading: Mark 10:46-52

What do you want me to do for you?" Jesus asked him. ~Mark 10:51

Asking For Help

Her email arrived late in a long day. In truth, I didn't open it. I was working overtime to help a family member manage his serious illness. I didn't have time, therefore, for social interactions.

The next morning, however, when I clicked on my friend's message, I saw this question: "Can I help you in any way?" Feeling embarrassed, I started to answer no. Then I took a deep breath to pause. I noticed then that her question sounded familiar—if not divine.

That's because Jesus asked it. Hearing a blind beggar call out to Him on the Jericho Road, Jesus stopped to ask this man, named Bartimaeus, a similar question. Can I help? Or as Jesus said: "What do you want me to do for you?" (Mark 10:51).

The question is stunning. It shows the Healer, Jesus, longs to help us. But first, we're invited to admit needing Him—a humbling step. The professional" beggar Bartimaeus was needy, indeed—poor, alone, and possibly hungry and downcast. But wanting a new life, he simply told Jesus his most basic need. "Rabbi," he said, "I want to see."

For a blind man, it was an honest plea. Jesus healed him immediately. My friend sought such honesty from me, too, so I promised her I'd pray to understand my basic need and, more importantly, I'd humbly tell her. Do you know your basic needs today? When a friend asks, tell it. Then take your plea even higher. Tell God! ~Patricia Raybon

Lord, I am needy. I want to share my heart with You now. Help me to humbly receive the help of others, too.

God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble. ~1 Peter 5:5

Morning Bible Verse

Wherefore we labour, that, whethter present or absent, we may be accepted of him. ~2 Corinthians 5:9

Morning Prayer

Our Father in heaven, whether poor in provision or poor in spirit, You have provided ways I can help. In Jesus' Name. Amen.

Afternoon Bible Verse

For other foundation can no man lay than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ. ~1 Corinthians 3:11

Evening Bible Verse

And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us. ~Romans 5:5

Evening Prayer

Heavenly Father, help me have peace as I meditate on what it means that Your are ALWAYS full of steadfast love for me. In Jesus' Name. Amen.