Leading the Blind

Reflection for Friday of the 23rd Week in Ordinary Time Year I
(1 Tim 1:1-2,12-14; Lk 6:39-42)
Today we begin a journey into St Paul’s letter to Timothy. Paul began by introducing himself, indicating the backup authority that inspired the letter. “...By command of God our Saviour and of Christ Jesus our hope, to Timothy, my true child in the faith.” Paul recognises that he is a child grace by acknowledging his unworthiness for the Mission of Christ. “The grace of our Lord overflowed for me with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus.” Now Paul had set the background on which he would be instructing the young man, Timothy. The letter is full of admonitions and directives, which, according to Paul, flow from the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ.

To lead people in the path of truth and righteousness is by the grace of God. Sin blindfolds us from seeing the glory of God. Those who are in a hurry to lead or make corrections are often blind guards! This is because they usually impose their humanity the path of leadership. So Jesus asked, “Can a blind man lead a blind man? Will they not both fall into a pit?” Our human sentiments are marred by sin. We are in constant need of purification. 

True leadership,  like St Paul, begins by examining ourselves and acknowledging our unworthiness. Then we allow Jesus to lead us in the path of holiness and mission. This grace working in us brings direction to others, to the glory of God. Therefore,  it takes great humility to lead others in the path of salvation. “A disciple is not above his teacher, but every one when he is fully taught will be like his teacher.” We need to see with the eyes of Christ, that the log blocking our vision might be removed. Then we can see our way, and lead others to safety in Christ Jesus. In you is the source of life, in your light O Lord we see light (Ps 36:9).

Fr Jude Chinwenwa Nwachukwu, C.Ss.R
Ss Peter and Paul Catholic Church,
Tedi-Muwo,  Lagos.
Friday September 13th, 2019
Memorial of St John Chrystostom.