READ
REFLECT
When performing a lift, we can get out of position simply by looking in the wrong spot. We have to pay attention to what we are doing.
How does our vision determine where we go in life? Competitors know this principle very well. As an athlete’s vision determines the direction of their body, the vision of a disciple determines the steps they take to draw closer to Jesus.
DISCUSSION
- How have you experienced the value of good vision through exercise and athletics?
- How does your life vision contribute to what you do daily?
In today’s reading, the man who was healed may have been born blind, but Jesus showed his disciples that vision is a matter of the heart. Vision holds power to create discipline.
- Vision produces discipline to obey. Jesus put mud on the man’s eyes and told him to “go and wash.” The man responded immediately to the instruction of Jesus. He wasn’t concerned about others’ opinions, his past failures, or worries about the future. His vision gave him the discipline to focus on obedience in the present moment.
- Vision produces discipline to commit. The Pool of Siloam was a considerable distance from where Jesus and His disciples likely met this man. After Jesus placed the mud on the man’s eyes, he had to descend hundreds of steps and navigate through a thick crowd. The man’s vision gave him the discipline to commit to wherever the instruction of Jesus would lead.
- Vision produces discipline to be authentic. The religious leaders adamantly opposed this miracle since it was beyond their understanding of obedience. They couldn’t see how God could work in such a way through a Man they did not respect. Their vision clouded their ability to obey correctly.
The man’s “blindness” revealed his true vision, and the “vision” of the religious leaders revealed their actual blindness. Jesus desires authentic obedience. When we put our eyes on Jesus, we can see ourselves, others, and the world around us how we were truly designed to see.
“We must do the works of Him who sent Me while it is day. Night is coming when no one can work. As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world.” – Jesus
SKILL WORK
- Identify the areas where you need to be more disciplined.
- How has your lack of vision kept you from obeying God?
- Jesus speaks of aggressive obedience regarding our eyes. Look up Matthew 5:29.
- What do you need to aggressively attack in your commitment to Christ?
- Ask God to give you a clear vision for Him today.
