Faithful Friday: Portrait of the Faithful-“The Man Born Blind”
by: Debbie Waltz
Over the last month, I’ve given you insight into what it might’ve been like to be part of Jesus’ inner circle. I hope that these insights have offered you a deeper understanding of the physical and spiritual transformations that occurred. The occurrences prompted each follower to examine their religious beliefs and simultaneously encouraged the religious leaders of that era to reassess their intentions and dedicate themselves to serving the Lord. Let’s pause and consider some individuals who were directly affected by God’s ministry on Earth. Some individuals might be aware of the Lord’s healing power, while others may not.
Today, we will explore the healing of the man born blind, as described in John 9. Despite limited information about this individual, this healing not only challenges preconceived notions about the disabled community during that era. Beyond the perception of physical disabilities as a curse, this man served as a tangible example of those who had not experienced spiritual understanding or heard the gospel.
Similar to many unnamed characters in the Bible, this man was probably of low social status, had minimal religious upbringing, and depended on begging (implied in 9:8) for his survival. Most of his days were probably spent sitting beside the road, asking for money from passersby. On the day he met Jesus, he likely only wished for some money to buy food. Jesus was determined to use this as a teaching opportunity when his disciples asked him, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?” (verse 2). He clarified that no one was to blame: “Neither this man nor his parents sinned,” said Jesus, “but this happened so that the works of God might be displayed in him (Verse 4). Instead of blaming his disability on a sin, he shifted the perspective. In other words, this happened so that God might be glorified as Jesus was revealed to be the Messiah and Savior. Through the healing of this man, God would be honored.
Now, let’s consider the blind man’s reaction to this dialogue. He’s likely accustomed to the disciples’ perspective. His self-esteem has probably suffered from people’s judgment of his disability, but he’s likely resigned to it as his only way to get by. Upon hearing Jesus, the man probably felt grateful and hopeful that Jesus would offer him something to help him get through the day. It remains uncertain whether the man was aware of Jesus and His miraculous healing abilities. However, one can infer that when Jesus spoke to him directly, a sense of hope likely emerged. Why? He followed instructions without delay.
When the man is asked more questions later, his faith becomes stronger because he is repeatedly questioned. Initially, he states Jesus was merely a man; however, by verse 17, he refers to Jesus as a prophet. Following that, he takes a leap that signifies a major transition, asserting that if this man were not God, he would be powerless to accomplish anything.
We all need to come to realize our powerlessness and reach out to Jesus. God is glorified (revealed) as he transforms our weaknesses into strength by trusting in him. The blind man did just that.