Some people experience struggles from the moment they are born, while others face rejection and abuse during their childhood.  What has happened in our past though, doesn’t need to define our future.

 

Consider this man in our story from John 9.  He was blind from birth and the only way he could survive is by begging from others.  And as if life was not painful enough, those around him say his suffering is caused by his own sin.  The future is dark, but then he meets Jesus.

 

A glimmer of hope rises in the blind man’s heart, as he hears Jesus answering the disciples question.  “It isn’t because of his sin,” Jesus says, “but God wants to showcase his glory in this man’s life.”  Could this also be true in our lives?  It certainly can!  Whatever has happened in our past, things we maybe had no control over, God can turn around and use them for good.

 

Jesus then does something shocking.  After spitting on the ground, he makes mud and rubs it onto the man’s eyes, telling him to go wash in the Pool of Siloam. Although he doesn’t know who Jesus is, he obeys.  Feeling his way, he stumbles down the cobblestone stairs towards the pool.

 

Initially it was Jesus who reaches out to him!  However he believes Jesus’ words and the moment he washes his eyes, his sight is restored.  The pain and rejection he has known all his life is healed.  He is whole!

 

Let’s bring those things from our past, that have filled our lives with shame and rejection to Jesus.  He is reaching out to you now, so believe his words.  These words are as true today as they were then.  Jesus wants to dispel the darkness and shine his light into your heart.