I don’t think I’ve ever looked at a disabled person and wondered if it was their sin or the sin of their parents that put them in the wheelchair or caused their infirmity. Yet, the disciples ask Jesus that very question when encountering a blind man. I understand it was a common belief in the Jewish culture that calamity was caused by an individual’s sin. No matter what, I suppose the question always hangs out there, “Why?”
I have asked that question before, and I’m sure you have, too. Why did this happen, or why didn’t that happen. You can fill in the blanks with your particular query. Didn’t you love Jesus’ answer? The why was explained so as to show the power of God. In this case, the power of God was revealed in the man’s healing. People were amazed. They witnessed God’s power working in their midst.
Maybe you’re struggling right now with something and wrestling with the “WHY” question. I think this passage clears up any question we may have that it is our fault, or that we are being punished for something we did. Instead, it is a situation that God is allowing so we can be more dependent on Him and His power. Will we be healed? How will the situation resolve? That’s up to God and how he wants to be glorified.
I heard it said that if God took away our suffering every time we asked, we would only follow him for our own comfort. God wants our devotion and our love. We were made to worship him. Listen here to one of my favorite Chris Tomlin songs, Made to Worship.
We need to take a step back from our problems and allow God to work. If you’re like me, you want to fix it. That isn’t always the best solution. I have to remind myself regularly to let go and let God. God’s plan for us is so much better than ours. We have to trust that.
I don’t want to get to the end of my life and see the path God intended and realize my path shadowed in comparison. Our daily struggles are only stepping stones to get us closer to God. We are never alone. We must allow ourselves to be filled with wonder and awe at the majesty of our God. God’s power is available to us!
Take some time today to reflect on how God’s power is yours for the taking. Ask him. Worship him. Accept his blessing.
Let’s pray. Lord, I come to you with a grateful heart. You have made me to worship you. You will provide what I need. I ask for your direction in my life. Reveal to me the path you have chosen so I can be sure to not get off track. I stand in wonder at your majesty and how you could possibly care for me. Shine down your light. May your healing power be unleashed. I will proclaim it from the mountaintop. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
