In Matthew chapters 5 through 7 there was a radical authority of Jesus's teaching. Then in chapters 8 and 9 we see His authority in healing. Now in healing two blind men. Jesus appears at first not to respond to their request. Their persistence is proof of their faith. If a person is easily dissuaded that is evidence that they don't have real faith.
Not telling would be a difficult task; it would be hard for people not to notice the change from blind to seeing. What was to be avoided was the unauthorized proclamation whereby Jesus' ministry and life would be co-opted for the purposes of lesser causes. Jesus next cast out a demon. Jesus heals the sick, but if the illness is the result of the demonic Jesus casts the demon out. We notice in this healing that Jesus is never distracted, but always deals with the root issue. The comment that nothing like this has happened in Israel indicates that the leadership had failed. They had failed to be connected to God so that the enemy had worked his way in. If nothing is happening in my life it is because I am disconnected. Faith requires persistent pursuit that will eventually result in God's agenda.
Jesus travels about on a massive healing tour and his reaction to the people was He felt compassion. He was struck by the pitiable condition of the people. When I experience some measure of success, is my reaction to it a keen awareness of the heart and the needs of people? Do I have the empathy to notice the people harassed and thrown down? Or am I so impressed with what is happening that I lose sight of hurting people? In the midst of a great event, Jesus has a gut reaction of pity for the plight of the people.
Jesus's response to them is to direct the disciples to plead with the chief Harvester for more workers. Harvest was often a picture of judgment, but in this case Jesus uses it as a picture of rescue from suffering.
"Lord, when things are good help me to never lose sight of the needs of individuals. When things are bad help me focus on the root issue of life, a right relationship with You. AMEN"
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