Lent@Landmark: Day 16

John 9:25 could be such a strong finish to the story of the man born blind, but the story has more to teach. Those examining him—those seeking a way to discredit Jesus, kept pushing for an opening.

They said to him, "What did he do to you? How did he open your eyes?"

He answered them, "I have told you already, and you would not listen. Why do you want to hear it again? Do you also want to become his disciples?"

Then they reviled him, saying, "You are his disciple, but we are disciples of Moses. We know that God has spoken to Moses, but as for this man, we do not know where he comes from."

The man answered, "Here is an astonishing thing! You do not know where he comes from, and yet he opened my eyes. We know that God does not listen to sinners, but he does listen to one who worships him and obeys his will. Never since the world began has it been heard that anyone opened the eyes of a person born blind. If this man were not from God, he could do nothing." (John 9:26-33)

Their message: There may be good things Jesus does, but he’s doing them the wrong way.

Their meaning: There may be good things Jesus does, but he’s not doing them our way.

Have you ever sent that message with the same meaning? Repentance often includes realizing that our way might not be the right way. Growth often includes realizing that, when our way is right, it might not be the only right way.