Faith in Action: The Clay and the Healing Touch

"Having said these things, he spit on the ground and made mud with the saliva. Then he anointed the man's eyes with the mud and said to him, ‘Go, wash in the pool of Siloam’ (which means Sent). So he went and washed and came back seeing." — John 9:6-7 (ESV)

This passage recounts part of the story where Jesus healed a man who was blind from birth. As Jesus passed by, He saw a man blind from birth. His disciples asked whether the man's blindness was due to his own sin or his parents' sin. Jesus responded that it was neither, but rather an opportunity for God's works to be displayed. Then, in verses 6-7, Jesus spat on the ground, made mud with the saliva, and applied it to the man's eyes. He then told the man to go wash in the Pool of Siloam. The man obeyed, went, washed, and came back seeing—completely healed. This miraculous healing led to much discussion and controversy, as the religious leaders questioned the man and later expelled him from the synagogue. Eventually, Jesus revealed Himself as the Son of God to the man, leading him to believe and worship Jesus.

My question is: Why did Jesus use clay to heal the blind man? Surely, He could have spoken a word, and the man would have received his sight instantly. But Jesus often works in ways that call for faith and obedience.

Think about other instances in Scripture where God required an action before a miracle:

  • Moses lifted his staff before the Red Sea parted (Exodus 14:16).
  • Naaman dipped seven times in the Jordan before he was cleansed (2 Kings 5:10).
  • The priests stepped into the Jordan before the waters stopped flowing (Joshua 3:13).

The blind man had to go and wash before he could see. Jesus gave him an opportunity to respond in faith.

What about us?

God often calls us to step out in faith before we witness His power at work. This might mean forgiving before we feel peace, tithing before experiencing financial provision, or obeying His call without yet seeing the full picture. True faith is active—it requires trust and a willing response.

The clay Jesus used was not magical, just as anointing oil in James 5:14 or water baptism carry no power in themselves. The miracle lies not in the elements but in obedience to God’s Word. These physical acts serve as catalysts for faith, helping us take tangible steps of trust, while the ultimate power to heal, restore, and provide belongs solely to God.

Prayer

Lord, thank You for reminding me that faith is not just belief but action. Help me to trust You even when I don’t understand Your ways. When You call me to take a step, give me the courage to obey, knowing that Your power is at work in my life. Amen.

Is there something God has been prompting you to do but you’ve been hesitant? Take a step of faith today, trusting that He will meet you as you obey.

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