In his address to the Church in Ephesus, John praised the community for many things. They were doing a reasonably good job and were faithful. But he had one thing against them: their love was lacking; they had forgotton the love they had at first. This is crucial - it is easy to be very busy and involved and to be 'good' in the eyes of many. But as we are warned elsewhere in Scripture, if we do not have love, it is useless, and we are nothing. Love is first; love is last; love is everything in between.

Those in the crowd told the blind man to shut up. He was crying out for Jesus to have mercy on him. He even addressed him as Son of David - a Messianic title. Jesus was very sensitive to cries of pain and distress - he stopped and called to the man, asking him how he could help him. The man simply wanted to see again, and Jesus immediately granted his request. We must have the persistence of this man in asking God's help, and not allow others to muffle or silence us. Jesus is always alert to our pain and suffering and is always ready to help us.