As [Jesus] passed by, He saw a man blind from birth. And His disciples asked Him, "Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?" Jesus answered, "It was not that this man sinned, or his parents, but that the works of God might be displayed in him. We must work the works of Him who sent Me while it is day; night is coming, when no one can work. As long as I am in the world, I am the Light of the world." (John 9:1-5)

Have you ever had somebody judge you for a misfortune that happened to you? "God must have cursed you," they said. "You did something wrong."

That's a horrible thing to hear when you're already suffering. And maybe you begin to wonder: What if they're right?

But Jesus makes it clear that this is wrong. People suffer for many reasons, most of them have nothing to do with punishment. God calls us to react to suffering like Jesus does—with kindness and mercy.

Look at the effect His gentle care had on the man! Within hours the man has been condemned by the religious leaders and denied by his parents. And yet when Jesus finds him later, the man is not complaining. He learns who Jesus is—the One God sent to be our Savior—and he worships Him. As long as he has Jesus, he is content.

We too can find hope, light, and contentment in Jesus. He has given His own life for us, that we might live in the light of His resurrection forever. How could He possibly not help us in our suffering now with all mercy, love, and gentleness?

WE PRAY: Savior, be the light in my darkest times. Amen.

Reflection Questions:

* Do you prefer day or night? Why?

* Why do you think people often rush to blame those who suffer?

* Tell about a time when Jesus' gentleness helped you.

Lenten Devotions were written by Dr. Kari Vo.

Today's Bible Readings: Leviticus 6-7    Mark 6:1-29

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