In Sunday’s Gospel, we hear the story of the man born blind. He finds Jesus and is healed. Seems easy enough.
It would be easy to think of this man in light of all those we know who are also blind: those who only see color when they look at others, those who only see religious practices that differ from their own, those who fail to see others in need, in pain, in darkness.
When our oldest was about two years old, we were driving along the road and came to a stop light. As we approached the light, I caught sight of a homeless man at the corner with a sign asking for money.
I am embarrassed to say that what came next was something that shames me to this day. In a moment, I taught my child to ignore the needs of others.
I switched lanes.
“Are you serious?” came the voice from the back seat. “You have nothing to give him?”
Caught.
She saw me ignore the needs of someone else and called me out on it. Even at a young age, she was smarter than me.
Sunday’s Gospel reminded me of that moment and made me think of all the things I still do not see. Though these things are ever present, I am blind. Though there are those around me who are light, I still somehow remain in darkness.
This week, I will wash my eyes and pray for sight.
To see the child whose needs are greater than my own.
To see and hear the coworker who just wants to talk.
To see the friend who has advice to share.
To see the spouse who is tired.
To see the person in need at the corner.
To see the woman at the home who wants a visitor.
To see the reflection of Christ in the mirror.
To see the leader who knows more than I do.
To see the opportunities for new life around me.
Master, I want to see.
O God of Light, wash away the darkness.