Seeing clearly

     There is a strange experience of healing found in the Gospel of Mark today (Mk.8:22-26).  Jesus has to make a second attempt to heal the blind man who was brought before him.  The first attempt brought vision, but it was somewhat distorted.  The second laying on of hands brought clarity of sight.  Why?  What happened?  A moment of weakness?

     I believe that the progression of the healing process rested with the one receiving the prayers and the laying on of hands.  He wanted to see.  But to see clearly and distinctly he needed to focus not on the sensation, not on the healing, but upon the source of his blessing.  Only then could he "see clearly", could he understand and appreciate and accept the great gift given him.  He could then see with the eyes of faith.

     James reminds us that we must not only be hearers of the word, but progress to be doers of the word.  Hearing can inspire and bring some insight (seeing but not clearly), but only when we bring that insight into action, only when we record that word on our hearts and in our lives, will we find contentment and blessing.  James reminds us that "Religion that is pure and undefiled before God and the Father is this: to care for orphans and widows in their affliction and to keep oneself unstained by the world".  Actions speak louder than words is an old phrase that is appropriate here.  There is another "Seeing is believing" that is better understood if reversed - "Believing is seeing" the truth of God's love and his call.  If we truly believe, and understand, and respond, then we SEE CLEARLY.