Gospel Reading: John 9:1-41
“Not as man sees does God see, because man sees appearance, but the Lord looks into the heart.” (Samuel 6) How often do we judge by appearance, by our preferences, or by our failure to see further than our eyes show us?
Light and darkness are the themes woven into our readings today. Paul encourages us to live in the light, because from light flows goodness and kindness. In the Gospel, the Apostles are quick to judge the blind man, asking who sinned: he or his parents. Jesus sets them straight by replying, “Neither, it is so that the works of God might be made visible through him.” The cure of the blind man leads the Pharisees into blindness and hatred. They refuse to celebrate, to see the light Jesus brings, and choose the path of darkness.
Today, we can ask ourselves the questions. Do we choose to see as God sees or as the Pharisees? Do we choose light or darkness? Do we choose by appearance only and turn a blind eye to the goodness of others?
Sister Rose Marie O'Barski, CSFN
