Some thoughts on how to be in these uncertain times
These are very
unsettling times. Each day brings more grim news and more uncertainty. It is
very difficult to imagine what the next weeks or months hold in store. Many of
you will be concerned for the health and safety of those you love, and for
yourselves. These are difficult times. But
the current crisis is also an opportunity to grow more deeply into this Lent
and to more fully live out the resurrection life.
Into all
this we are given John 9 as our gospel reading, the story of the blind man
healed by Jesus. Some commentators suggest we should add John 10: 1-21, Jesus’ commentary
on what has happened. In the Greek Jesus ignored the question about who had
sinned that the man was born blind. The man is blind[1].
Now that Jesus has seen him it was time for God’s works to be revealed in him.
It is important that we not dissolve into blaming others for what is happening –
as easy as that is. It is important that we join crucified and risen Jesus in doing
the works of God. Just as Jesus is the light of the world, we are invited to be
light. What does that look like for us at this time?
Jesus sees
the blind man. He offers healing. The blind man hears Jesus, the good shepherd
and obeys. Later Jesus seeks him out and invites him into the deep trusting relationship
he offers all who would become disciples. He invites him to be like Abram and
Sarai, to leave all he knew of life behind. He was invited to leave behind his
identity as son of his father and blind beggar, and see himself as a disciple
of this rabbi, with these others who were learning to see the pain around and
to offer healing.
A real
question in all this is how might we continue to be church during the darkest
of days? If our identity is built around Sunday, we might be in trouble. But I would
suggest that this story of the healed blind man has much to offer. What invitation
do you hear as you look ahead to all that might unfold?
Care for
each other. Stay safe. Stay calm. Wash your hands.
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