Perceptions #32

Blind Eyes

by Penney Nichols

Bitterness, anger, pain. Those were the acids that blinded his eyes. Angry that he had been caught, hating the foreigners who had invaded his country and who now were executing him. Bitter at his own stupidity for letting his guard down. Pain at the thought that his life was now for nothing. Wasted. He was not dying the noble death of a martyr for a country or even dying to protect his loved ones. He was not even dying the death of the innocent, killed by crazed killers or robbers. He deserved what was happening, but would not accept it.

But another could see. His were the eyes of clarity. Not blinded nor even dimmed by the sins of his soul, he had received the release that comes from knowing, "I am guilty. I deserve what is coming." Though still guilty, forgiveness could come into his own heart for he had admitted his crimes to himself, as well as to God. He could see because he chose to accept responsibility for his thievery.

The first looked at Jesus and insulted Him. In a sourness of the soul, he said, "Save yourself and us." The other said, "We are getting what our deeds deserve. This man has done nothing wrong." And to Jesus he said, "Remember me when you come into your kingdom."

The first would not see Jesus again, blinded by his choices. The second saw Jesus that day! Is it time for a personal eye inspection? It will affect when and how we see Jesus.

Norman's e-mail address is: nlbales@allaboutfamilies.org

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