The word "blind" for me is indicative of how in today's society we accept only those who fit into a stereotype that we define for ourselves as being worthy of our attention and love. This hampers our relationship with God and others.
Take the blind man in John 9: 1-17, he had been blind from birth as we are told. Largely due to this condition, the disciples who were with Jesus assumed that his ailment was due to the sins of his family and hence he is left bearing the burden. Jesus tells us that this isn't true. What we have in my opinion is a man who due to his circumstance has subsisted as a beggar and relied on the goodwill and kindness of others to survive.
I asked myself a few questions, how often was he noticed standing there by the road side asking for aid? How many times did people walk by him and acknowledge him with a simple "good morning" or "how are you doing today"? Chances are that it was was very few and far between. His condition in life ostracized from society, he was viewed as untouchable and looked down upon.
Then along comes Jesus, who acknowledges and shows love towards him. Jesus decides to use him to reveal God's work and hence open our eyes. What a teachable moment this is. We ought to show love to others, especially to those less fortunate and destitute. The interaction Jesus had with the blind man shows how the smallest of efforts, can impact and change the lives of others. Perhaps it was the first time anyone had ever said anything to him, let alone put their hands on him as Jesus had when he applied the mud mixed with saliva to his eyes. The end result, after washing his face is that his blindness was healed and right there and then his life changed.
As we continue in L
ent, my prayers are that we should acknowledge and show love and kindness to those around us, especially the most needy and destitute. This is God working through us not only to change their lives, but ours as well for the better. I must admit that it does feel good when you know that you can make a difference in someone's life. Hmm... what a wonderful thing this gift of sight! I wonder who has benefited the most, the blind man or you?
