As the Day Begins

John 9:26-34

Then they asked him, “What did he do to you? How did he open your eyes?” He answered, “I have told you already and you did not listen. Why do you want to hear it again? Do you want to become his disciples too?” Then they hurled insults at him and said, “You are this fellow’s disciple! We are disciples of Moses! We know that God spoke to Moses, but as for this fellow, we don’t even know where he comes from.” The man answered, “Now that is remarkable! You don’t know where he comes from, yet he opened my eyes. We know that God does not listen to sinners. He listens to the godly person who does his will. Nobody has ever heard of opening the eyes of a man born blind. If this man were not from God, he could do nothing.” To this they replied, “You were steeped in sin at birth; how dare you lecture us!” And they threw him out.

Meditation

The passage from John 9:26-34 offers a   moment of confrontation and revelation. The man who was born blind and now sees is questioned by the Pharisees, who are skeptical and hostile toward Jesus. This man’s testimony is unwavering; he acknowledges the miraculous work done in his life and boldly attributes it to Jesus, challenging the Pharisees’ disbelief. This interaction highlights the contrast between spiritual blindness and physical blindness. The formerly blind man’s simple yet powerful proclamation, “If this man were not from God, he could do nothing,” serves as a testament to his newfound faith and clarity of vision—both physical and spiritual. His courage to speak the truth in the face of hostility invites us to reflect on our own willingness to stand firm in our faith, even when it is met with opposition or doubt.

In our meditation, we are called to examine the transformative power of Christ in our lives. Just as the blind man experienced a radical change, we too can be spiritually awakened and empowered to testify to God’s works in us. This passage urges us to embrace the truth of Jesus’ divinity and his ability to bring light into the darkest areas of our lives. It is a reminder that genuine encounters with Christ are undeniable and life-changing. The blind man’s experience challenges us to live out our faith with boldness and integrity, even when it might lead to rejection or misunderstanding. Through this meditation, we are encouraged to seek a deeper understanding of who Jesus is and to witness his love and power to those around us.

Prayer to the Heavenly Father

Heavenly Father, I come before You in awe of Your mighty works and unending grace. Just as You opened the eyes of the man born blind, I ask that You open my eyes to see Your truth and love more clearly each day. Help me to recognize Your presence in my life and to acknowledge the miracles You perform, both great and small. Father, I thank You for the gift of sight—both physical and spiritual—and I pray that You will continue to guide me in Your light. When I face doubt or opposition, give me the strength to stand firm in my faith, just as the man in John 9 did. Let my life be a testimony of Your goodness and power. Amen.

Prayer to the Son

Lord Jesus, I am humbled by the depth of Your compassion and the power of Your healing touch. You brought sight to a man born blind, and You have the power to heal the brokenness in my life as well. I ask for Your grace to fill me and transform me, that I might be a living testament to Your love and mercy. When others question or doubt, grant me the courage to speak boldly of the change You have wrought in me. Help me to follow Your example of patience and love, even in the face of rejection. Jesus, You are the light of the world; shine Your light into my heart and guide my steps, that I may walk in Your truth and share Your love with others. Amen.

Prayer to the Holy Spirit

Holy Spirit, I invite You to dwell within me and to lead me into all truth. Just as You empowered the blind man to testify of Jesus’ miraculous work, empower me to share my faith with conviction and clarity. Open my heart to Your promptings and teach me to listen to Your voice above all others. When I am faced with challenges or persecution, remind me of Your presence and give me the words to speak. Fill me with Your peace and boldness, that I may proclaim the wonders of God without fear. Guide me in living a life that reflects the love, joy, and truth of Jesus Christ. Amen.

Thought for the Day

Reflect on the transformative power of Jesus in your life. Remember that like the man born blind, you too have been given the gift of sight through Christ. Stand firm in your faith and let your life be a testament to His love and power.