God Is Not An Ogre

Friday, February 25, 2011

Reading: John 9:1-12

Reflection: There are two potentially disturbing aspects about this story. The first is the assumption that physical defects in people are directly linked to issues of sin. The disciples seem to assume that because this man was born blind, he must be under the curse of God. That curse must be the result of either this man's sin or his parent's sin. This was a common, though erroneous, way of viewing sin in the days of Jesus. So imagine the pain and shame this man has lived with as those in his social network pass judgment on him and his parents. At one level, Jesus answer to the disciples brings a great sense of release and freedom. It is not sin that has caused this man's condition. With this word, the weight of judgment is removed.

However, does this not create another problem in our minds? Doesn't it appear that Jesus is suggesting that God directly caused this man to be born blind in order that His glory might be revealed? Is this what God is like? He reaches into the wombs of women to strike their children with defects, then lets them live much of their life in misery, on for the purpose of making himself look good? Well, maybe not. Jesus never said that God is the direct cause of this man's condition. Jesus only said that ultimately the result of this man's condition would be the glory of God. So, is it not possible that the reason this man was born blind was because he was born into a fallen world, marred by sin, and under the direct assault of the devil. But the result will be the inbreaking of God to break the devil's hold on the man so that he is set free. If this is the case, then God is one who redeems and rescues, not one who aflicts and distorts.

May all of us take a lesson here. May we learn that not every person with a physical, social, or emotional problem are guilty of sin. Sometimes bad things happen to people because of the fallen world and the fallen angel that seeks to destroy us. In addition, what is needed in these situations is not our judgment which brings guilt and shame, but bringing people to Jesus so that even their pain can be turned into God's glory. God grant us the grace and foresight to bring people to Jesus.