How well do you see? As my years progressed, my vision deteriorated. The natural process of aging contributes, but I expect too many hours in front of the computer is the greater culprit. But in August, eye surgery made an amazing difference in my vision–now I see much better.

A Man Born Blind

In Chapter 9 of the Gospel of John, the author writes of the healing of a blind man. Jesus and His followers encountered a man whom the Bible describes as being blind from birth. The disciples questioned Jesus about the cause. “Who sinned to cause his blindness, this man or his parents?”

Jesus responded:

“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)

Jesus spit on the ground and made some mud. He put this mixture on the man’s eyes and directed him to wash in the Pool of Siloam. Afterwards the man could see! He expressed his joy, but his neighbors questioned him, doubting his identity and his healing.

The Jewish leaders soon heard about the incident (miracle) and demanded the man come to them for further investigation. The man couldn’t explain the “how,” but he was confident about “what” and “who.”

“One thing I do know. I was blind but now I see.” (John 9:25b)

The Pharisees even questioned the man’s parents:

“Is this your son?” they asked. Is this the one you say was born blind? How is it that now he can see?” (John 9:19)

When the parents confirmed the man was indeed their son, born blind, but couldn’t explain how he could now see, the Jewish leaders became more angry. Summoning the man once more, the Pharisees insulted Jesus and the former blind man, accusing both of them of being sinners. They threw the healed man out of their presence (John 9:34).

Sight for the those in need

I wasn’t born blind, but my eyesight was pretty far gone. As my vision improved dramatically following surgery, I experienced joy. Changes include the ability to read without glasses, the blessing of more vivid colors in nature, better night vision, and less issues with bright lights/sunshine. Like the healed blind man, I’ve shared my happiness with others. Thankfully, no one hauled me in for questioning or called me a sinner.

My experience is not the miracle resulting from mud Jesus created and I credit modern medicine with performing excellent surgery and care. However, I’m still extremely grateful for the wisdom and knowledge God grants to our medical personnel. And I’m thankful for the excellent care I received from hospital and office staff. For me, the happy results rank up there close to miraculous.

The Light of the World

The blind man in this story not only received his sight, he received salvation (John 9:35-38). That, my friends, is the greater miracle, that Jesus came into our world as our Lord, our Savior, and our Light.

When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” (John 8:12)

Has something miraculous happened to you recently? Please share your joy and brighten our day.