Inbox Inspiration: March 22, 2020: Fourth Sunday of Lent

Special – 2
Fourth Sunday of Lent
Gospel: John 9:1-41  

This is a rather long, interesting, and beautiful story about Jesus giving sight to a man who had born blind.
Imagine: he had never been able to see.
We are not told this man’s name – maybe because the gospel writer wants us to realize that we, each of us is this man.
In giving sight to a man who is physically blind, Jesus conveys that he wants to give sight, spiritual sight to each of us.
At any rate, one of the features of this story that really takes my attention is Jesus’ initiative and what that says to us.
Jesus sees, notices, and takes the initiative in healing this blind man.
By the way, this is in sharp contrast to that memorable story in Luke’s Gospel (16:19-31) about an unnamed rich man and a poor beggar named Lazarus.
That rich man never even noticed the homeless, hungry beggar sitting in front of his house.
God ends up welcoming that beggar into his home in heaven.
Well, in today’s story, Jesus’ noticing and taking the initiative is so significant.
That’s the way God is with us – taking the initiative in loving us, no matter what.
And God, Jesus, calls us to do the same.
I think this is a timely lesson right now.
Maybe there is someone who lives on our street or in our apartment/condo building who might need something from the supermarket or drug store.
I realize that physical distancing is important right now.
But, we could place a phone call, send a text or email, or ring the doorbell and ask if something is needed.
Maybe we can safely run into Safeway or CVS and get what that person needs and deliver it to them.
Or, maybe we can simply take the initiative in praying – for our elderly, for those who are sick, for those without shelter or without health insurance, for doctors and all health care workers, for all in our country and our world.
That’s an initiative we can all take.
Jesus’ example in this gospel story is very poignant for us, especially right now.

Father Michael Schleupner