One thing that I would prefer not to reveal to other people are the times when I struggle in my faith. It seems like I should always have firm faith, faith that can move mountains, unwavering, unshakable faith.
Yet our family’s circumstances and my own faith journey has led me though times of incredible doubt, fears and confusion. What do I do when I experience challenges to my faith?
When I read John 9.1-41, I learn what not to do. Here is a man healed from physical blindness who is surrounded by people who are spiritually blind. The disciples show ignorance; they don’t understand that sinfulness and weakness provide an opportunity for God’s glory to be revealed. The man’s parents are fearful. The neighbors are skeptical of Jesus’ ability to bring glory to God through the healing. Finally, in the face of this incredible miracle, the Pharisees are willfully stubborn.
Ignorance, fear, skepticism, and stubbornness are all possible responses to challenges to our faith. The problem is that they all lead to a missed opportunity for God’s glory to be revealed. As I face my own struggles in the faith, I want to be like the man who was physically blind but who had spiritual sight. I want to remain committed to Christ, even when I don’t have all the answers. I want to hold fast to what I do know: “I was blind but now I see.”
I may not have all the answers; I may struggle with confusion, insecurity and doubt;, but I will wait for Jesus to show up and reveal God’s glory to me in his own perfect time.
photo by Gastev
You can read more of Melanie’s musings at her blogs, tales from the crib and (after)life.
