John 9:2
"Teacher,
his disciples asked him, why was this man born blind? Was it a result of his own
sins or those of his parents?"
(NLT)
It was a question I considered when I received the
news-why. It wasn't the first time I had wrangled with a confusing and senseless
situation, and it wouldn't be the last.
My daughter's cross country coach had just received
the most tragic news a parent could hear. His daughter had been killed. She was
riding her bike through their genteel neighborhood when a gentleman accidentally
ran a stop sign and hit her. The father was asking why, and I was contemplating
the question myself.
The why of apparent meaningless tragedies that destroy
lives and hard earned possessions is never simple to answer. Some suggestions
offered are purely insufficient to soothe our anger or sadness and others are
theologically incorrect. Time worn responses are just that-worn. Like a thread
bare towel, they provide little substance to dry the tears of misunderstanding.
The question predates this instance in Jesus' career,
but Jesus gives a new spin on the ancient "why dilemma." He and his disciples
happen upon a man born blind. Reflecting the typical mindset, the disciples ask
Jesus who sinned-the man or his parents. After all, suffering-at least in their
philosophical understanding, was always the result of sin. Jesus' answer was
radical. No one. He was born blind so the power of God would be seen in him.
So God created him blind just so He could look good?
Jesus' answer may seem as insufficient as some we hear, but it does challenge us
to revolutionize our focus when difficulties intrude on our otherwise serene
existence.
Asking God why is not sinful as some have supposed. It
is a normal human response to unexplainable or confusing events. But the more
appropriate question is what. Redeeming tragedies is more important than
wallowing in them. Learning from difficulties is healthier than letting them
destroy our initiative.
The healed blind man redeemed his misfortune.
Following his healing, he spread the good news about Jesus' power. Redeeming our
trials and tragedies gives us the opportunity to illuminate the power of God's
sustaining grace as well as share the lessons He has taught us through the
"what." God consoles us so we can comfort others.
Prayer: Lord, enable me to redeem what otherwise might
appear unredeemable.
Martin Wiles mandmwiles@homesc.com
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