Blindness and Healing in the Gospel of John

Thirteenth Sunday after Pentecost

Third Year

Gospel John 9:1–7, 39–41 Jesus Our Healer

Jesus saw a man who had been blind from birth by the roadside. His disciples asked him, “Rabbi, who sinned that he was born blind? This man or his parents?” Jesus answered, “Neither this man nor his parents. It was so that the works of God might be made manifest in him. We must do the works of him who sent me while it is day. The night is coming, when no one can work. As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world.” When he had said this, Jesus spat on the ground, made some clay with the saliva, and anointed the man’s eyes with it. He said to him, “Go to the pool of Siloam and wash.” The name of the pool means “sent.” The man went and washed, and came back seeing.

Jesus said, “For judgment I came into this world, that the blind may see, and those who see may become blind.” When some Pharisees who were nearby heard this, they asked, “Do you not mean that we are blind also?” Jesus replied, “If you were blind, you would have no sin; but you say that you see, and your sin remains in you.” ( John 9:1–7, 39–41 Third Edition)

What can we learn from the healing of blindness?

The ninth chapter of John’s Gospel tells the powerful story of the healing of a man born blind. Jesus not only gave this man the ability to see, but he also taught us important lessons about blindness and sight. This story challenges us to consider what blindness and healing mean to us today.

Understanding Blindness and Sin

When Jesus healed a blind man, the disciples asked, “Who sinned that he was born blind? This man or his parents?” This question reflects the thinking of the time, which associated illness with the consequences of sin. Some cultures believe that a physical defect, such as blindness, is a direct result of committing sin. For example, in Chinese culture, there is a traditional view that illness is caused by karma or past wrongdoing. Jesus replied, “Neither this man sinned nor his parents, but so that the works of God might be made manifest in him.” This shifts the focus of the discussion. Instead of looking for blame, we should ask how God’s glory can be manifested in our lives, even when we face difficulties.

The underlying purpose

The story opens up a profound question: What is the meaning of illness or suffering? Jesus sent the blind man to the pool of Siloam, which means “sent.” This unity with Jesus’ mission—to heal and bring hope—is central. Most people who are sick say that their illness has made them reflect on the purpose of life. While illness can be painful, it can also provide an opportunity for God’s grace and teaching touch. When we face challenges, we can ask ourselves, “What can God teach me in this situation?” This question can open doors to new insight and strength that we would not have otherwise found.

Illness and Faith

Let’s think for a moment about those who live in constant suffering, such as those with cancer. The Bible book of Job tells the story of a man who lost everything, but his faith remained strong. Studies have shown that about 65% of people with cancer report that faith has given them strength in the midst of suffering. This raises the question: Why does God allow good people to suffer? Could it be that suffering has a deep meaning in God’s plan? We can be blind to God’s plan, and that is why it is important to learn to see the opportunities and lessons in difficulties.

Jesus’ Teachings to His Disciples

Jesus said to his disciples: “He was blinded so that the works of God might be made manifest in him.” This statement places an obligation on us. We should not be mere observers, but active participants. For example, when someone close to us gets sick, we can do various things. We can offer practical help, such as cooking, or emotional support. Such actions can help us to see God’s great plans. It is important that those who “see” are not blind to God’s work around them. When we help each other, we can make God’s will visible in our lives.

Seeing and believing

How can we develop our ability to see God’s reality? Faith is not just a symbolic idea; it is manifested in our actions. For example, the story of Joseph in the Bible reminds us how great blessings can come from hardship. Joseph, who believed in God during adversity, later opened the way to high positions in Egypt. This way we experience that even when we face challenges, God’s goodness wins.

The power of community

We do not have to go through hardships alone. Our community, church and friends can be important pillars of support. When we pray, support and gather our strength, we can see God’s work being done better. The power of community improves people’s chances of recovering from illness. This emphasizes the importance of being together. The power of community helps us see God’s love and compassion. When we support each other, we can be a light in the darkness.

Summary

The story of the blind man in the Gospel of John deals with profound religious and spiritual meaning. It challenges us to examine our own faith, our ability to see, and our response to suffering. Jesus’ words, “This happened so that the works of God might be made manifest in him,” inspire us to seek God’s will for our lives.

When we face difficulties, let us remember that suffering can be part of a greater plan. Jesus was sent to save us, and his grace is always present. Seeing and believing go hand in hand, and it is our job to open our eyes to what God is doing in our lives.

We live in a time when blindness and sight are more relevant than ever. Let us choose understanding and love, and share these gifts with one another. Let us be careful not to be blinded by God's desire to teach us at every stage of life.