Blindness
In the Gospel this week, we see how the Pharisees “suppress the truth by their wickedness” (Romans 1:18) because they refused to believe in the miracle of the curing of the man who was blind since birth. We live in times when the truth is so easily buried or twisted by misinformation, sensationalism, political correctness, and wokeness. Fiction is being peddled as fact, and fact is relegated to the darkness of obscurity, if not oblivion. History is being rewritten to serve the agenda of those who seek to oppress the marginalised, the poor. Many are blind to the truth of our Lord because they are unwilling and unable to change their lives. Many are shackled in darkness to the trappings of lies, of bigotry, of hate.
In contrast, we see how the man who was cured of his physical blindness was also cured of his spiritual blindness. We see his faith grow as he goes from “The man called Jesus”, to “He is a prophet”, then “He is one who does God’s will”. When Jesus first healed the blind man, he didn’t see Jesus. His obedience, following Jesus to wash in the Pool of Siloam, cured his physical blindness. His encounter with our Lord gave him a steadfast spirit that he was able to stand against the Pharisees. Ultimately, the once blind man said, “Lord, I believe” and worshipped Jesus.
We encounter our Lord in every person we meet, in every moment of our lives, and in every word of scripture. When we encounter our Lord we should open not just our eyes, but our hearts and minds as well. “If today you hear his voice, harden not your hearts.” (Psalm 94:8) Like the blind man, obedience is the first step. Following our Lord, keeping our eyes on him and not allowing ourselves to turn a blind eye from the truth; can lead us to a spiritual awakening and shine our Lord’s light in our hearts.
“If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” (John 8:31-32)
Randy Reyes
Parish Pastoral Council Chair
