Laetare Sunday provides us a bit of respite in the discipline of Lent, reminding us that there is always joy to be found amidst the challenges of penance and restraint that we seek during this season. In today's Gospel, we heard about the healing of the man born blind; of how a man who lived in darkness all his life was finally brought to see the light by the Lord. In John's Gospel, light is often associated with faith, while darkness stands for turning away from God. The faith of the man who was healed stands in stark contrast with that of the Pharisees. The latter refused to accept that Jesus healed in the name of God and sought to discredit this healing, but the man's insistence in the power of Jesus, even in the face of threats, showed his faith in the Lord.

It was his later acclamation, "Lord, I believe," that truly moves and inspires. The Lord came to him and showed him great love through healing, and thus leading him to deep faith. The same happens with us as we approach the Lord, especially during Lent, seeking His grace and opening ourselves to His love. As we notice His loving presence, we too will be led to the joy of faith, basking in His light, and ready to bring this light and joy of faith to others.