Wednesday of week 6 in Ordinary Time 

Genesis 8:6-13,​20-22
Psalm 115(116):12-15,18-19
Mark 8:22-26

EXPLORING THE REALITY THAT SIGHT AND INSIGHT CAN BRING

In today’s gospel narrative, Jesus takes the blind man by the hand and leads him away from the village. This action raises important questions regarding the identity of the individuals who brought the man to Jesus and the rationale behind Jesus’ decision to distance him from both those individuals and the village context.

While Jesus’ act of healing addresses a physical condition, it simultaneously underscores a profound thematic exploration of blindness that transcends the mere physical realm. This episode highlights the complexities and challenges inherent in achieving a lucid understanding of one’s environment, as well as the nuanced distinction between physical sight and deeper insight.

Blindness, in this discourse, is presented as a multifaceted human condition rather than a mere physiological defect. This concept extends beyond humanity, as evidenced by the phenomenon of ocular blindness observed in various animal species. Additionally, it prompts consideration of societal ignorance—an affliction characterized by obstinacy and resistance to enlightenment. Jesus consistently engaged with this societal issue, frequently confronting the religious leaders of his time, whom he referred to as “blind.” This characterization stems from their obstinacy in acknowledging the suffering inflicted by their self-serving legalistic frameworks, their neglect of justice, and their complicity in systemic injustices and moral failings. Such societal blindness remains a contemporary issue that warrants continuous reflection and proactive engagement in prayer and action to mitigate.

Jesus’s reference to Isaiah 6:9—“They may look and see and not perceive”—serves as a pivotal reflection on spiritual blindness that invites introspection. It is often through the acute recognition of our own blindness that we seek the grace of illumination and understanding.

FROM SPIRITUAL BLINDNESS

“Open our eyes, O Lord!”

Jesus consistently extends his healing touch, inviting a transformation that enhances our perception. This resonates with the lyrics of a well-known hymn: “Open my eyes, Lord, help me to see your face. Open my eyes, Lord, help me to see!”

Blessings.

Fr Joseph Osho