Have you ever been defined by your past failures, to the point that people no longer believe you even when you speak the truth?
In the Gospel of John, the story of the blind man who was healed by Jesus is portrayed. When he was asked about his miracle, the Pharisees immediately judged him, saying these harmful words: “You were born totally in sin, and you are trying to teach us?”
In our society, many people remain voiceless in telling the truth because they are afraid that those in power will not listen to them. Many of us try to prove that we are right because of our position, knowledge, or status in life. Because of this, we refuse to listen to others. But this Gospel awakens us to the truth that wisdom can come from anyone, even from those whom society looks down upon. It teaches us that true power is not about proving that we are always right, but about having the humility to listen and recognize the voices and opinions of others.
Sometimes we tend to forget others because of their past failures. We think that because they were sinners before, they no longer have the right to speak the truth. But we must remember that God does not see them simply as sinners. Instead, He sees them as human beings who are always given the chance to be renewed. God knows our hearts. That is why He heals us—out of His love and mercy. Let us be reminded that God knows how to heal the brokenhearted and that He makes all things new.
My dear brothers and sisters, this Laetare Sunday, let us be reminded by this Gospel not to let the past cover the goodness of our neighbors. Let us become a voice for others, and let us use our status, knowledge, and even our power for the good of others, especially for those whom society often looks down upon.
