Lent Day 11 : Because of Sin? (John 9:1-5)
Lent Day 11
Because of Sin?
John 9:1-5
1. As he went along, he saw a man blind from birth.
2. His disciples asked him, "Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?"
3. "Neither this man nor his parents sinned," said Jesus, "but this happened so that the works of God might be displayed in him.
4. As long as it is day, we must do the works of him who sent me. Night is coming, when no one can work.
5. While I am in the world, I am the light of the world."
◇ Here's a story about an evangelist. He mentioned that he lived in extreme poverty during his childhood, so much so that he could see the stars in the night sky while lying in bed, giving us a glimpse into how impoverished his life was. His mother served as an evangelist, and despite her fervent faith and diligent preaching, she often received scorn and ridicule from relatives. They would say, "Just focus on your own faith and live a better life. How many sins must you have committed to be that poor? If you live like that, it either means there is no God or you are full of sin."
Is that really the case?
Many people use how well one lives as a standard of judgment. Economic wealth, social status, education, and health are all benchmarks. How much one enjoys various forms of prosperity in life becomes an indicator of their good faith and receipt of blessings and grace from God.
On the contrary, if someone is economically poor, sick, of low social status, or not prosperous in their life, does it mean they have poor faith and are being punished? Are they receiving God’s punishment because of sin?
Jesus clearly says that is not the case. Our current circumstances and situations are meant to reveal God's work, to be a tool to manifest God in the world, and to be God's co-workers.
As Christians, it is only natural to reflect on our lives through the lens of God's word. Through introspection, we should discard what needs to be discarded, strengthen what needs to be strengthened, and change to align with God's will. However, we must avoid judging and condemning others based on their current situations. Instead, we should comfort and encourage our fellow brethren who may be experiencing disappointment, frustration, or despair, helping them to have a renewed spirit.
What does God desire?
♧ God, make me one who contemplates your work! Allow me to deeply consider what pleases you and to act accordingly! Holy Spirit, lead me in truth!
Because of Sin?
John 9:1-5
1. As he went along, he saw a man blind from birth.
2. His disciples asked him, "Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?"
3. "Neither this man nor his parents sinned," said Jesus, "but this happened so that the works of God might be displayed in him.
4. As long as it is day, we must do the works of him who sent me. Night is coming, when no one can work.
5. While I am in the world, I am the light of the world."
◇ Here's a story about an evangelist. He mentioned that he lived in extreme poverty during his childhood, so much so that he could see the stars in the night sky while lying in bed, giving us a glimpse into how impoverished his life was. His mother served as an evangelist, and despite her fervent faith and diligent preaching, she often received scorn and ridicule from relatives. They would say, "Just focus on your own faith and live a better life. How many sins must you have committed to be that poor? If you live like that, it either means there is no God or you are full of sin."
Is that really the case?
Many people use how well one lives as a standard of judgment. Economic wealth, social status, education, and health are all benchmarks. How much one enjoys various forms of prosperity in life becomes an indicator of their good faith and receipt of blessings and grace from God.
On the contrary, if someone is economically poor, sick, of low social status, or not prosperous in their life, does it mean they have poor faith and are being punished? Are they receiving God’s punishment because of sin?
Jesus clearly says that is not the case. Our current circumstances and situations are meant to reveal God's work, to be a tool to manifest God in the world, and to be God's co-workers.
As Christians, it is only natural to reflect on our lives through the lens of God's word. Through introspection, we should discard what needs to be discarded, strengthen what needs to be strengthened, and change to align with God's will. However, we must avoid judging and condemning others based on their current situations. Instead, we should comfort and encourage our fellow brethren who may be experiencing disappointment, frustration, or despair, helping them to have a renewed spirit.
What does God desire?
♧ God, make me one who contemplates your work! Allow me to deeply consider what pleases you and to act accordingly! Holy Spirit, lead me in truth!