February 23

Introduction

John 9:1–12: Today’s reading begins with a conversation between Jesus and his disciples, prompted by their seeing a man who had been born physically blind. At the time of Jesus, some believed that a person who was blind was being punished by God for sinning, or for the sin of one’s parents. Jesus rejects the connection the disciples make between sinful actions and illness. The man’s blindness is an occasion that will reveal God’s power at work in Jesus.

Today’s Key Verse: John 9:5

[Jesus said:] “While I am in the world, I am the light for the world.”

Reflect

In today’s reading, the healing of the blind man is at Jesus’s initiative (verses 6–7). How do people react when they realize that the man can now see (verses 8–9)? The healed man serves as a witness to his own healing. How does he respond to those who question him (verse 11)?

Pray

Lord Jesus, you are the light for the world, and you have revealed God’s power at work in you. Keep me close to you and guide me each day in the way of your truth. Amen.

Tomorrow’s Reading

John 9:13–41: The Pharisees investigate the healing.