Gospel: John 9: 1-41
Jesus heals a man born blind. The response of everyone in this story is astounding. The disciples encounter this man, and their main concern is figuring out who sinned in having this man with such a fate - even blaming him, as if an unborn child could sin! The religious authorities blame Jesus for healing the man because it was on the Sabbath, and eventually they too blame the man born blind, expelling him from the rolls of synagogue membership.
In no instance did anyone other than Jesus care directly for the man and provide for his need. Everyone was looking to blame someone for something. No one rejoices in this man's healing save for Jesus. We might find this strange were it not so common in the world of religion. How often do those in religion seek to condemn, blame, and focus on all sorts of things that are not the care of others and rejoicing in their healing and restoration.
Today's story of the man born blind falls on Laetare Sunday - praise Sunday. This reading reminds us to imitate the Lord Jesus in focusing on the needs of those who need healing, liberation, and nourishment, and to give praise to God and to rejoice with those who have received healing, liberation, and nourishment. This is the way of authentic religion, the way we seek in our Lenten journey to the empty tomb.
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