Doug Richter

John 9:1-5

Wednesday, March 7

1 As he walked along, he saw a man blind from birth. 2 His disciples asked him, "Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?" 3 Jesus answered, "Neither this man nor his parents sinned; he was born blind so that God's works might be revealed in him. 4 We must work the works of him who sent me while it is day; night is coming when no one can work. 5 As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world." – John 9:1-5

The disciples do not ask the right questions. Immediately upon seeing the blind man, the disciples ask Jesus where the blame should lie; "Who sinned to cause such imperfection in this man's life?" In only a few sentences, Jesus provides some needed guidance. There are two main points/questions in the passage that stand out to me. First, who is truly blind? Second, do we ask the wrong questions too? I think they are related, our blindness keeps us from asking the right questions and doing God's work.

We can spend much of our days focusing on the problems of our own lives and finding ways to assign blame to others for our misfortune. Likewise, we can also find pleasure in others' misfortunes. Unfortunately, these are examples of our sinful, human nature and the very ailments that distract us from doing God's work. Jesus directs his disciples to put forth their energy into working for God by helping others, not wasting the sunshine of the day through casting judgement.

Questions for reflection:

• What are the situations, emotions, feelings or preconceptions that might cause a blindness to Jesus' teachings in your life?
• Do we ask the right questions in our daily lives, and do those questions put Christ or ourselves at the center?

Prayer:

Dear Lord, we are a blind and self-righteous people; focused on ourselves. We ask for both forgiveness and the energy to put our feet forward to better serve your people without prejudice or judgement. We ask that you light our paths and give us the courage to do your work. Amen