When Jesus passed by the blind man, even his own disciples assumed the man was born blind because of his or his parents sin. The disciples’ negative judgment was wrong. Jesus explained to his disciples that the man had been born blind so that the workings of God’s power could be displayed through his life. In other words, God planned to connect with and use this struggling, misunderstood man to bring His light into the world. After Jesus had healed the blind man, giving him sight for the first time in his life, many observers believed in Him, but the established religious community put the man out of their congregation. He was rejected again! Jesus then returned and met with the man, personally revealing Himself as the Son of God!

Like this blind beggar, many of us have experienced being rejected, misunderstood, and judged by those who are supposed to be loving and compassionate. When we encounter negative responses or people misinterpret who we are, we must always remember the truth that Jesus is especially close when we are rejected. At all times He understands us, unconditionally loves us; and longs to use our lives to His glory. Most importantly, He wants to develop His spiritual children through a personal, growing, everlasting relationship with Him! As we continually remind ourselves and believe by faith that, through the hard times of being misunderstood and rejected, God always has a plan to bring us to a better place!

“Jesus heard that they had put him out, and meeting him He said, ‘Do you believe in and adhere to the Son of God? He answered, ‘Who is He, Sir? Tell me, that I may believe in and adhere to Him.’ Jesus said to him, ‘You have seen Him: [in fact] He is talking to you right now.’ He called out, ‘Lord, I believe! [I rely on, I trust, I cling to You!] And he worshiped Him” (John 9:35).