"Once I Was Blind, But Now I Can See" by David Fulk
I am the light of the world
(John 9:5 NIV)
It puzzled me from the start. This text about a man blind from birth doesn’t include the miracle of his sight. Isn’t this the season of happy endings? Then I saw it. This Advent text isn’t about the outcome, but the process leading toward an outcome.
First, Jesus dispels a myth of that—and even this—day that a person’s infirmity or trouble isn’t the result of anyone’s sin. Why do we so often seek to place blame when things aren’t perfect?
Then Jesus told the disciples (and us) to do God’s work around us so others may see it and recognize him as the light of the world. A subtle reminder that we can be blind to the light of Jesus.
It was then Jesus did something specific to help the blind man.
So what do we see here that’s useful to us this Advent?
Be observant. Jesus and the disciples noticed the blind man. Our openness to seeing the opportunities around us is vital.
Don’t judge. Considering if a person’s predicament is the fault of his or her own or someone else only delays the work God asks of us.
Reflect. As we do God’s work in this world, we reflect holy and eternal light. We possess many skills/gifts to help others. Whether it’s giving, organizing, finding answers, comforting, being a presence, even praying, we will make a difference to someone who’s hurting.
Receive. We must admit that we, too, have times of blindness and need. May we be open to accepting the light of Jesus offered to us by others.
Come to the light, ’tis shining for thee;
Sweetly the light has dawned upon me;
Once I was blind, but now I can see,
The Light of the world is Jesus!
—hymn text by Philip Bliss (1875)
David Fulk