Criminal Minds: Suspect Behavior

Pastor Evita L. Smith
John 9: 13-34

Imagine after years of infirmity or affliction, a man passing by, in a moment, changes your life. Once considered ill, you are now well. Once looked down upon, now you are restored. However, what should be a moment of celebration turns into an inquisition. Instead of friends and family celebrating your victory, accusations fly, questions are raised, and unbelief is heard across the crowd. For the man born blind, instead of being celebrated, he is treated as an accessory to a crime. The criminal is this man called Jesus. The question to be asked, who is the real criminal – Jesus or the accusers?

As we prepare to commemorate the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus, we are called to take inventory of ourselves. Have we been more like the prosecuting unbelievers and Pharisees? As Christians, it is our purpose to serve as witnesses to the wonder working power and saving grace of God through Jesus Christ. Oftentimes rather than act as witnesses and disciples, we choose silence for fear of being misunderstood or rejected. We question the ability of the miracle worker rather than trusting and believing in and for the miracle. We would rather choose religious traditionalism of protocol rather than remaining open to a fresh move of God.

Prayer: Restorer and Giver of Life, help us to embrace our purpose as your witnesses. Forgive us for our unbelief and help us to believe once again. As we put our trust in You, show us anew You are the God of miracles, signs and wonders. Amen.

Pastor Evita L. Smith
Kingdom Seekers Community Church
Atlanta, GA
Website: www.kingdomseekerscc.org