When Jesus and his disciples were walking past a blind man one day, the disciples asked “Who sinned, this man or his parents?” (John 9:2). They were under the impression that sickness is punishment for sin. But Jesus tells them “It was not that this man sinned, or his parents, but that the works of God might be displayed in him” (John 9:3). Well, for the past couple of weeks, I have been quarantined because of Covid. And so that has called to mind, what works is God wanting to display through my sickness?
- Service (actually allowing others to serve). This is a difficult one for me and I know it is for many other men. We want to be able to take care of things ourselves. But for a few days, I was too sick to do anything and then for a couple of weeks, I couldn’t leave the house. I had to rely on others to run errands and pick up groceries for me. Its humbling for me and allows others to serve. My wife wrote a really great post on that topic a few days ago. Check it out here: facebook.com/faithfulhomebiblestudies/posts/483887369821864
- Meditation. I have had to slow down. I am usually busy from the time I get out of bed until the time that I get back in. But for the past couple of weeks, I’ve had to take it easier. I’ve even had to take times to walk around outside doing breathing exercises. It has allowed me to meditate on scripture and how God is at work in my life.
- Appreciation. Now that I am feeling healthy again, I have a renewed sense of appreciation for something so simple as feeling good. I was talking with Cole Crabtree several weeks ago and he was telling me how after he and his brother, Cade, had a very difficult time repairing a broken tractor, Cade said “I’m glad that happened.” Why in the world would he be glad for a hard time? “Because next time when it’s easier, I’ll appreciate it more.” Well, I can definitely say that I really appreciate my health, my sense of smell, and being able to leave the house.
What works is God trying to display through you?