John 9:40

It so happens that some of the ever-present Pharisees overhear his words to the man, and they quickly jump into the conversation by asking, “Jesus, are you referring to us when you talk about those who are blind? Are we blind as well?” John 9:40 EFP 

Do the Pharisees already know the answer to the question they submit before they hear the answer from Jesus? They are always around. They listen to his messages. They see his miracles. They most likely know the events surrounding the man with whom Jesus is speaking. They know he was blind. They know he now sees.

Then they eavesdrop on Jesus’ conversation with the man regarding blind people who see and sighted people who don’t. Then they hear Jesus say something about making those who can now see become blind. They cannot help themselves! They have to ask, all the while knowing his answer is not going to agree with them. So they ask, “Are we blind as well?” In other words they query, “Are you talking about us?”

Really? Given the recent developments, not to mention the long-standing hostilities between them and Jesus, and their open opposition to his preaching and miracle-making, what did they expect his answer to be? If I choose to oppose an idea or a person through whom this idea is being passed on, I should not be asking if I am blind to that person and his message. But self-deception is a black-hole. It self-perpetuates and self-validates to the point that truth is no longer of import; it is preserving my point of view at all cost. That kind of blindness is more tragic than the lack of eyesight. Lord, don’t let self-interest be my motivation in my lifelong search for truth. Let me see Jesus!