When Jesus approached the blind man, before his miraculous cure, this man was given a sense of hope; a hope that God offers us today. Jesus recognised this man who had been blind from birth, not as as not a sinner, but whose infirmity would lead him to a greater purpose. Jesus would use this sign as a revelation of God’s power. Jesus would acknowledge his relationship with God when he states, I am the light of the world (John 9:5).
Jesus is telling us that he has the power and is the source of light that can save us from our spiritual blindness.
My office is right in the heart of the Brisbane CBD. It has two entrances. The front entrance descends directly onto bustling Edward Street. Here we see one of the centres of a thriving caffeine culture, well-known international fashion outlets and beauty ‘rejuvenation’ salons. The street in full of busy public servants, legal officials, hospitality and retail workers. Most people seem to have a purpose and a place to be.
The other entrance, by contrast, leads out to the Cathedral Precinct. Here is the Cathedral of St Stephen and various office blocks that support the work of the Archdiocese of Brisbane.
On any one day or night there are upwards of 15 people who are sleeping rough in this precinct. Their possessions are piled under a blanket or a tarpaulin. Many display evidence of mental health issues.
As a missionary disciple of Jesus, I ask Jesus to cure me of my spiritual blindness to see the needs of the marginalised and act as Jesus would with compassion.
I pray that I can see Jesus in each of these disparate groups. My hope is not to stand in judgement. As St Paul states, avoid the darkness of sin that I can walk more clearly in the light of Christ (Ephesians 5:8-12).
My prayer is that in my own small way, I can be the hands and feet of Jesus and assist and walk with those who need my help and prayers.