Theme of the Day: Against the Rock of Grace, Condemnation Is Crushed
We know that unbelief will have consequences in the future—eternal separation from God. But unbelief also has consequences now. It makes you blind, in a sense. The unbeliever is unable to see the world as it really is. That which is harmful the unbeliever considers good; that which is good he considers meaningless. The unbeliever cannot see the danger that lurks behind temptation. He cannot see the blessing contained in God’s Word. The unbeliever cannot see the tragic fate that lies in his future, and he certainly cannot see the Savior.
The Old Testament said that restoration of sight to the blind was one of the works of the Messiah. In his ministry, Jesus healed those who were physically blind. But even if our eyes work just fine, we still need Jesus to give us spiritual vision. Jesus said, “I am the light of the world.” Christ comes to shine his light into our darkened eyes that we might see him and live. Jesus meets our greatest needs. He provides sight for the spiritually blind.
John 9:1-7,13-17,34-39
Isaiah 42:14-21
Ephesians 5:8-14
Psalm 27
537 – Word of God, Come Down on Earth
515 – Christ Is the World’s Light
517 – Praise the One Who Breaks the Darkness
518 – Christ Be My Leader
765 – O Son of God, in Galilee
Prayer of the Day: O Lord Jesus Christ, by your almighty power you opened the eyes of the blind and showed yourself to them. Turn our eyes away from worthless things, and lead us to love you sincerely; for you live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.
Gospel Acclamation: Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.