Key Verses:
“‘Neither this man nor his parents sinned,’ said Jesus, ‘but this happened so that the works of God might be displayed in him.’” — John 9:3, New International Version
“I am the light of the world.” — John 9:5, New Living Translation
Today’s Reading: John 9
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Growing up, my family watched “A Christmas Carol” every Christmas. There is a moment in the movie when Bob Cratchet and his son, Tiny Tim, arrive home late from church. Bob turns to his wife and says, “He hoped the people saw him in the church, because he was a cripple, and it might be pleasant to them to remember, upon Christmas Day, who made lame beggars walk, and blind men see” (“A Christmas Carol” by Charles Dickens).
Tiny Tim was small and frail but full of faith. His hope was that his weakness would remind people of Christ.
In John 9, Jesus heals a man blind from birth. But there is more to the story. Jesus also opens the eyes of his heart.
Throughout the chapter, the man describes Jesus in three different ways. Each time he moves one step closer to fully understanding who Jesus is.
First, he calls Jesus a man (John 9:11). Then he calls Him a prophet (John 9:17). Finally, after seeing Jesus with his new eyes, he sees who He really is — God (John 9:38).
In contrast, the Pharisees regress each time they speak about Jesus. They say He’s not from God (John 9:16). Then, they claim to know He is a sinner (John 9:24). And finally, they don’t even know where He comes from (John 9:29). Each time they step further into darkness and unbelief.
Jesus said, “I am the light of the world” (John 9:5). When Christ left the world and ascended to heaven, He commissioned us to be a light for the world. He didn’t choose who we might expect. He chose a blind beggar. He chose us.
Tiny Tim was right.
I like to think that I’m humble like the blind man. If I’m honest, I’m more like the Pharisees. I often lean on my own strength and understanding. I need to be reminded that when we are weak, God gives us power. His power enables us to be a light to the world.
If you are feeling inadequate, tired or powerless, remember that God says, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:9, NIV).
Reflect:
How do you reflect God’s light to the world?
In what areas in your life are you relying on your own strength?
Pray:
Father, thank You for shining Your light into my heart. “I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me” (2 Corinthians 12:9, ESV). Give me strength so I can be a light for the world.
For more encouragement about God’s strength in the midst of our weakness, check out this article.
Jesse Madera has been on staff with Cru for 10 years. He works as a writer and editor for Cru’s publishing division, Cru Resources.
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