“The Second Touch: Seeing People Clearly”

Morning Devotional — March 18

Mark 8:11–26

There is a progression in this passage that feels uncomfortably familiar. The Pharisees demand a sign. The disciples misunderstand the bread. And a blind man begins to see.

But not clearly. “I see men like trees, walking.” And maybe that’s more revealing than we first realize. Because sometimes our first touch, our first awakening, our first experience, even our first formation, doesn’t fully heal the way we see people. We still see but we don’t see rightly.

Think about how we treat trees. You can sit under them for shade. You can take their fruit for nourishment. You can cut them down to build something. Or burn them to keep yourself warm.

Trees become valuable based on what they provide. And if we’re honest, isn’t that how we sometimes see people? What can they do for me? What do they bring to the table? How do they benefit my life, my ministry, my vision?

Even in the church; even in ministry, people can quietly become resources. Not image-bearers, but instruments. Not sons and daughters, but means to an end.

The blind man wasn’t in darkness anymore, but he also wasn’t whole. And that’s the danger. Because partial sight can feel like clarity. We can function. We can lead. We can build. We can even minister. And still, be seeing people incorrectly.

Jesus doesn’t leave him there. He touches him again. And suddenly he sees clearly. Not as objects. Not as shadows. Not as “trees.” But as people.

This is the deeper work of Christ in us. Not just opening our eyes to Him, but transforming how we see others. From utility to dignity. From production to personhood. From what they offer to who they are.

We all need a second touch. A fresh work of the Spirit that restores our vision so we see people as they truly are, image-bearers of God. Not for what they can produce. Not for what they can provide. Not for how they can serve our purpose. But as sacred. Beloved. Carriers of divine image and worth.

Prayer

Lord Jesus, touch my eyes again. Where I have reduced people to usefulness forgive me. Where I have measured worth by production transform me. Give me eyes to see clearly. To honor the image of God in every person I encounter. Let me not see people like trees but as You see them. Beloved. Sacred. Yours. Amen.