John 9:9

On his way back he came across some of his neighbors and other who knew him, all of which had seen him in his sightless condition. They begin to ask themselves, “Hey, isn’t that the blind man who sits and begs around town?” John 9:9 EFP 

I imagine the man has not even begun to internalize his new-found sight. He is so overwhelmed with his ability to see and with the gift of sight he has been given. No doubt he is trying to find his way back to where he was healed hoping to find Jesus. His heart is pounding with the expectation of finding the healer. He doesn’t even know what he looks like, but his desire to give thanks overwhelms all his senses.

But the story takes a twist, people who know him as the blind beggar see him walking without the help of a walking stick or even a person to lead him. I am not sure if their reaction is more surprise than suspicion or vice-versa. The fact is they take notice and begin to wonder out loud if this is indeed the blind beggar or simply someone who looks a lot like him.

My guess is they are fighting with their own unbelief. After all, he may have been sighted now, but his clothes and general demeanor are unmistakable. Their curiosity is piqued. There is something different. There is a change when a life-altering event takes place. People notice. You can’t hide it. I wonder, have the blessings I enjoy and the daily gifts I often take for granted veil my joy and gratitude to God in the eyes of others? Do people see anything different in me when I walk down the street? Do the people who know me best see the work of Jesus in me? Something to ponder.