New Sight

And as Jesus passed on from there, two blind men followed him, crying aloud, “Have mercy on us, Son of David.” When he entered the house, the blind men came to him, and Jesus said to them, “Do you believe that I am able to do this?” They said to him, “Yes, Lord.” Then he touched their eyes, saying, “According to your faith be it done to you.” And their eyes were opened. And Jesus sternly warned them, “See that no one knows about it.” But they went away and spread his fame through all that district. As they were going away, behold, a demon-oppressed man who was mute was brought to him. And when the demon had been cast out, the mute man spoke. And the crowds marveled, saying, “Never was anything like this seen in Israel.” But the Pharisees said, “He casts out demons by the prince of demons.” Matthew 9:27-34

We spent the day riding across the bay, visiting Delaware and looking at the water from another shore. The ferry ride out was early across a placid bay. The sun was warm and the water was bright with the light. As we enter the breakwater, dolphins were jumping and diving in front of us. As we return, I am amazed how much difference a change in perspective can make. How a different view brings out a whole new vision, new sights and sounds. The trip is less seventeen miles. Sometimes a few miles can make a big difference.

Jesus responded to the people who were in need by healing their vision, by restoring their hearing. He didn't ask them if they were from the right family, the correct sect or from the right side of the tracks. He just made them better, gave them a new lease on life. The religious leaders were disgusted with his lack of discretion. He wanted to make a huge difference in people's lives, giving them the ability to dream big and live for others.

Today, I am grateful for new sight, for healing by a renewal of the mind. A change in venue, a new view, is often needed for us all, especially those of us who try to lead and be faithful. We can get stuck in the rules and miss the opportunities. May we all take time to renew our vision so that we might bring new life to those who are suffering in the shadows, tossed aside for the world cannot find a use for the broken. May we remember that God can and does, and calls us to use our lives for the renewing of others.