John 9

Pretty straightforward chapter.

9:2/3 - Why was this man born blind?...This happened so the power of God could be seen in him. - I think we wonder a lot about why certain things happen to people. In an effort to "protect" God we think it is always related to sin. Some things apparently occur so God can do a great work and show Himself through it. I'm not saying I get it, but Jesus said sometimes our weaknesses and afflictions are part of God's plan to reveal Himself to us and through us. We should be careful not to run from every thing we perceive as bad in life. It may be that God is preparing to do a great thing in our lives and we need to faithfully trust God.

9:14 - This Sabbath thing really messed the Jews up. The "nice" thing is we are so much better at it. Apparently, our approach has been to go to the other extreme and not honor the Sabbath concept from God at all. I wish we could figure out how to honor God with a Sabbath without obsessing about it.

9:20-22 - His parents sold him out because of fear of the Jews.

9:25 - ... But I know this: I was blind, and now I can see! - I love this. We all need a I was blind, but now I see! testimony ready when people ask. We all need a response about what we know God has already done in our lives through Christ. I would challenge you to take some time to consider what you know because of what He has already done and then be prepared to share that whenever you get the chance.

9:41 - "If you were blind, you wouldn't be guilty," Jesus replied. "But you remain guilty because you claim you can see." - We have to be careful how we see ourselves. If we are humble and admit we are still learning we can receive grace, but if we think we have it all figured out we will be judged accordingly.

Love, Michael