Perhaps we know or have met people who have physical handicaps or impediments. These are those who are visually and/or hearing impaired, or those having speech impediments. We read about men and women, sometimes celebrities, who have anorexia or eating disorders. We may also know of “special” children or those who have learning disadvantages. The question is: how much have we done to help these people?
Unfortunately even in this new millennium, many of us cringe at the sight of the disabled and some of us avoid them as much as possible. The physically and mentally challenged remain a marginalized portion of our society despite all the awareness and publicity regarding their plight. Perhaps this attitude is due to ignorance or apathy towards their plight. Or perhaps, some of us just do not care.
Jesus ministered to the marginalized, the sick, the disabled, and the outcasts like the lepers. He traveled from town to town, village to village, healing many of them. Within our own communities, how many do we know today who imitate Christ in this manner?
The joy of the healed deaf man must have been great to see. It is a joy to see disabled people who, despite their handicaps, keep their faith strongly with God. These disabled brothers and sisters are excellent examples for us to admire and emulate.
