Takeaways

In this passage, where we see Jesus tell us He is the Light of the World, we see Jesus bringing light by healing the man born blind. Jesus uses a unique and even weird approach, spitting into dirt, making mud, and spreading it on the man’s eyes.  When the man washes, he can see.  Because Jesus did something uniquely, extra conversations were able to happen. In these, we see an incremental journey of restoration and faith, as well as more examples of the love, grace, and kindness of Jesus.

1.  vv. 8-12 – Neighbors

Restoration:  This man was likely on the fringe of his community. Due to his blindness, he never would have seen the people around him, and probably could not participate in activities.  In restoring his site, he also would have the chance to become more involved in his community.

Faith:   We see his first step of faith in simply acknowledging that “the man called Jesus” was the one who healed him.

2. vv. 13-17  Pharisees

Restoration: the religious leaders were revered. They likely never even paid any attention to this man.  Through this experience, the man was recognized by people who previously ignored him.

Faith: The man now says, “He is a Prophet.”

3. vv. 18-34  Jews / Parents

Restoration:  For the parents, not only was their son able to see them for the first time, but often, it was assumed that sin of the child or the parents was the cause of illness and disability.  His healing may have also healed the hearts of his parents, even though they were afraid of acknowledging Jesus.  

Faith: perhaps the parents were beginning a journey of faith too.  The man becomes bolder to say that while he does not know everything about Jesus, “One thing I do know, that though I was blind, now I see” and even asks them, “Do you also want to become His disciples?” indicating a decision the man has made.

4. vv. 35-41 Jesus

Restoration: perhaps the most touching part of this story is how Jesus went and found the man after he washed.  He interacted with him personally.

Faith: the man says, “Lord, I believe.”

Jesus used a unique, even weird approach to healing this man.  Jesus plans unique and creative ways to bring about His glory in our lives.

Along the way, Jesus is attentive to us. He is personal. Not one detail doesn’t matter to Him.

Reflection Prompters

1.  Neighbors:  Do you ever feel on the fringe of your community/life circles?  Is there someone in your community who may feel on the fringe that you can reach out to and show care to?

2. Pharisees:  What religious leaders have you learned from in the past that maybe did not direct you accurately in the word of God or encourage a personal relationship with Jesus? Understand that all religious leaders are human and fallible, and pray for them.)

3. Parents/family:  What type of relationship do you have with your parents and/or family members? This man’s parents may have experienced freedom from Jesus healing their son, but they also struggled with fears.  Pray for specific family members God brings to mind.

4. Jesus: How have you seen Jesus deal with you in a unique or personal way lately?

5.  Truths to meditate on, write out, and pray over:

• Jesus is always up to more than one thing at a time.
• Jesus plans unique and creative ways to bring about His glory in my life.
• I can trust Jesus to bring about what is best.
• Jesus is attentive to me, personally. Every detail matters to Him.
• (From the worship set.) Lord, I need You, oh I need You, every hour I need You.