Mark 7-9: An Incomplete Miracle?

When Jesus healed someone, He always healed them completely. Or did He? In Mark 8:22-26 Jesus healed a blind man by making mud with His spit and putting the mud on the man's eyes. But he was healed in two stages. The first time Jesus asked, "Do you see anything?" This was unusual. Usually the healed went away rejoicing. It's almost as if Jesus EXPECTED this man to still be partially blind.

The man could see things, but they were fuzzy: "I see men, for I see them like trees, walking around." So Jesus laid hands on him again to completely restore his sight.

Why did Jesus heal this man in two stages? It was not because Jesus lacked the power or made a mistake. Jesus COULD have healed the man instantly if He wanted to. Jesus did this as a lesson. But what lesson?

Does anyone have any ideas? HINT: look at the previous few encounter with His disciples. Let me know what you think.

God bless,
Nathan

Tomorrow's Reading: Mark 10-13