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!" Luke 18:39
What do you do when the whole world seems to hold you back? In truth, the world system is unjust. The law doesn't always seem to protect the innocent. The rich always seem to get richer. The poor always seem to feel helpless. Those who govern seem to lose sight of more than a few special interests.
What is a man to do?
A little persistence goes a long way, so SHOUT all the more!
The blind man on the road to Jericho was pushed aside. Those who led the way tried to stop him from bothering Jesus, but he wanted to see more than anything. So - he shouted all the more, and it paid off! Like the persistent widow who received justice from an unjust judge - like the tax collector who received mercy for his humility - like the children whose parents brought them to Jesus against the wishes of the disciples - the blind man received that for which he longed. He received his sight. Nothing held him back. What did he have to lose?
Father, my entire life has seemed like a battle to overcome the world. I know I am not alone in this conflict, but why do I so often feel pushed aside, pressed down, and quieted by others - by my own heart? As a child, I felt lost in the crowd. As an adult, I feel trapped by the expectations of others and the shortcomings of my flesh. Will I ever get there? Will I ever get to that place of confidence where I don't care what others think? To that place of self-control where I don't fear toppling off the pedestals I build? In reality, what do I have to lose?
Help me, Lord, to never give up. Help me to be persistent. Help me to shout all the more, so I might see Your purpose fulfilled through me!