God's Light; Social Breakdown.

The man born blind answered,

“I do not know whether he is a sinner.

One thing I do know,

that though I was blind, now I see."

(from John 9:1-41)

Going on a cave tour, the guide turned off the lights leaving us in total darkness literally unable to see our hand in front of our faces.

I couldn't see any members of the group. 

I was totally focused on my safety.

When the lights came back on, I could see my hand in front of my face, other group members, the cave's unique features, and a sense of security.

In the darkness no perspective; in the light is reality.

It was probably a lonely experience for the blind man who's at others' mercy, lacking a sense of security, begging, and excluded from temple worship. 

By God's Grace, Jesus, sees the blind man's situation, heals him and sends him to wash in the pool of Siloam.

The blind man, interrogated by his neighbors, in frustration says, "One thing I do know, though I was blind, now I see."

I'm convinced there's a darkness in our society caused by a communication breakdown resulting in racism, gender conflicts, violence, and social isolation.

I also see all sorts of analysis and perspectives for resolution to this darkness, most of which seem beyond my comprehension as solutions.

By the Grace of God, one thing I do know, Jesus brings healing and hope to this social breakdown.

In a way, it's like the tour guide turning on the lights again. 

We have gone from complete darkness, to the subdued lights of the cave, to the completed tour, and into the radiance of God's sunlight.

We have gone from social breakdown to the brightness of God's love and justice.

Think about it: What has God provided for you along life’s journey for your strength, healing and inspiration?