One of the most powerful experiences I have ever had with respect to blindness was as a hospital chaplain. One day I was riding the hospital elevator in the company of Phil R., a hospital administrator. As Phil and I were sharing some light conversation, I noticed a young man also riding the elevator. He was blind because I remember him using a pole to feel his way onto the elevator. When the elevator arrived at our destination, we got off as did the young man. He immediately came over to Phil and said with full confidence: “Hi Mr. Phil R. How are you?” Phil was amazed and didn’t recognize the man. My name is Jimmy J., and when I was a little boy, I studied with you at the School for the Blind.” Phil answered: “Oh yes, now I remember you. How did you know it was me right this moment?” The young man responded: “I recognized your voice. You always had a gentle voice, and I will never forget how kindly you treated me and all your students.” Later on, Phil said to me how amazing this was since he had taught this man over 25 years prior! In light of today’s Gospel, where Jesus encountered the man born blind, something similar happened. The blind man recognized the kindness of Jesus through hearing his voice. Jesus responded with great gentleness and kindness as He then healed the man. The question that arises for me is “Who was really blind and who could truly see?” You see, many people who had physical vision did not truly “see” who Jesus was; they were blind to the reality that He was the Son of God who with a gentle voice would bring light and peace. Among them were the chief priests and Pharisees. Ironically, the man born blind really “saw’ Jesus for who He really was: the Messiah and Savior. The blind man had spiritual sight, while those who could physically see, were totally blind to Jesus. So, one of the lessons we can take from this weekend’s Gospel is how we can develop spiritual sight and avoid spiritual blindness. Both the blind man and Jimmy J. were able to see with their hearts. What kind of condition are our hearts in? Are we seeing and hearing God’s gentle presence in our lives this Lent?   ~ Fr. John

 

 

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