Spiritual blindness is often caused by hardened heart and sin, which can prevent a person from seeing the need for God.
According to St John of the Cross, it is a state of darkness that stems from being attached to the self-will rather than God, which blocks the soul’s inability to see divine truth.
It is often associated with pride and self-righteousness, preventing individuals from recognising their true spiritual state.
The text from the gospel of John, is about the story of transformation of a man born blind from physical darkness to spiritual sight, while exposing the spiritual blindness of the Pharisees and the people around him.
Despite the pressures from the authorities, the blind man firmly said to Jesus, “Lord, I believe,” and he followed him.
He was disowned by the most important people in his life, those closest and dearest to him, because they did not believe that blindness caused by sin can be healed.
But he remained steadfast in his testimony when he said, “I was blind, and now I see”.
As we continue our journey through the Season of Lent, let us ask ourselves: Are you willing to examine your own spiritual blindness and seek Christ’s healing light?
Like the blind man in the gospel, are you willing to stand up for Jesus, even if it brings misunderstanding or rejection?
~ Contributed by Fr Line Abilgos of St Michael’s Catholic Church, on behalf of the Combined Churches of Deniliquin.