Spiritual Eyes

Jesus healed a man who was born blind. When his neighbors questioned him about the healing, he told them, “The man they call Jesus made some mud and put it on my eyes. He told me to go to Siloam and wash. So I went and washed and then I could see.” (Jn. 9:11) NIV

Strange circumstances and a remarkable event—people pay attention when a blind man receives physical sight. But the story isn’t complete. The people questioned him further before the Pharisees came to challenge and rebuke him.

He became testy in return: “Now that is remarkable. . . ! If this man were not from God, he could do nothing.” (v. 30a,33)

At that, the Pharisees reacted with anger. They, threw him out. (v. 34b)

When Jesus heard how the man had been treated, He found the beleageued fellow. Jesus asked, “Do you believe in the Son of Man?” (v. 35b)

Confused and hurting, the man cried out, “Who is he, sir. . . ? Tell me. . . .” (v. 36)

And then Jesus opened the man’s spiritual eyes so he could respond in faith. With his newly-received spiritual eyes he said, “Lord, I believe,” and he worshipped him. (v. 38)

Originally published November 22, 1983

Picture: Patty's Garden, 2008. Photo by Solveig.