Again, Asking How? (John 9:15)

 


Tuesday, May 6, 2025


Psalm 18:1-31

Exodus 19:16-20:17

John 9:13-23


Observance: John, apostle and evangelist [if not observed on December 27]


Again, Asking How? (John 9:15)


So the Pharisees again asked [the blind man] how he had received his sight. And he said to them, “He put mud on my eyes, and I washed, and I see.”


John’s gospel has several wonderful stories of people and their conversion. One of my favourites is Nicodemus, because of his character growth that develops through the whole account. The blind man in the ninth chapter is another conversion story, yet somewhat different to Nicodemus’ experience. John shows off his brilliant writing skills, as he has worked into this chapter a great story filled with sublime truth, dire warning, and not a small amount of humour.


Jesus simply walked up to the blind man and gave him his sight. There was no mucking about, he just got stuck in and did the job. Yet we remember that, in context, Jesus is persona non grata amongst the upper crust types. And so this deed, which is plainly done in the sight of all, ends up turning into something like an episode of Yes, Minister, or The Hollowmen.


On the one hand, Jesus is a sinner, according to the Pharisees. So he could not have made this man see. But on the other hand, this man sees – what are they to do? They choose the only option open to them (apart from believing in Jesus themselves, that is): they turn themselves around in knots trying to make the facts fit their preconceived notions.


Remember our own conversion. Remember what we were like before Jesus gave us eyes to see. The time has passed for living in sensuality, passions, drunkenness, orgies, drinking parties and lawless idolatry. With respect to this, people we knew back in those days are surprised when we do not join them in the same flood of debauchery. (1 Peter 4:3-4) Even after our conversion our growth in virtue, knowledge, self-control, endurance, godliness, mutual affection and love (2 Peter 1:5-8) is a surprise to those around us who do not know Jesus as he truly is.


Let us ask ourselves, how did this happen? And again, ask, how? The conversion of the heart towards God is a beautiful mystery, wonderful to be contemplated. How have you come to know Jesus as he truly is? How have you grown into the new person over the years?


We offer our hearts to you, Lord, promptly and sincerely, in humble gratitude for the conversion from stone into flesh you have worked on them. Show us your glory in our love for you.

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