Gospel of Luke 18:35-43
As Jesus approached Jericho a blind man was sitting by the roadside begging, and hearing a crowd going by, he inquired what was happening. They told him, "Jesus of Nazareth is passing by." He shouted, "Jesus, Son of David, have pity on me!"
This poor blind man! He so desperately wanted to see Jesus. What a pity the people walking the streets tried to silence his cries. I'm sure the people felt embarrassed. They saw the blind beggar as a low life, a cripple, and a good for nothing. Yet through all of this ridicule, the beggar's tremendous faith shouted through. Jesus brought back this man's sight.
I know people who are blind-folded. They purposely ignore signs of distress in others. They do not want to admit their daughter is a drug addict, their son is gay, or their father is bedridden and all alone. These people are "blind" to the circumstances of others. They are so wrapped around egoism and self-love that they turn their backs on others experiencing hurt & confusion. Those who see choose not to see. Those who are blind want to see.
Next time we are with someone, we should look straight into their eyes and tell them how much we love and care about them. We should make it a point to "see" the good in others. Yes, we may not like this or that person. We may even hate to even look in that person's direction. But, Christ never turned is back on his faithful! He healed people throughout his ministry. We can "heal" our relationships through better communication. We can be more Christ-like. It takes prayer, sacrifice, and due diligence to remove the blind folds and see the light of faith.
-J.
See the good in them and tell them why specifically. Acknowledge each other's strengths, talents & gifts while recognizing the ultimate source. Lift each other up instead of dragging down. This Gospel & it's many lessons are good reminders heading into the holiday season.
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