Redeemer/Vindicator

Job 19:1-7, 14-27
John 9:18-41
I want to be careful and not oversimplify the connection between these two passages. The fact is that that they each contain some difficult ideas. But they also contain some similar themes that seem to resonate. Job offers a great affirmation of trust in his ultimate vindication. “I know that my Redeemer lives,” he says, “and that at the last he will stand upon the earth” (Job 19:25). Unfortunately this section of the passage is difficult to translate with any certainty, so among other things we do not know exactly who it is that Job considers his “Redeemer.” And what’s more, the word translated as “Redeemer” (Hebrew: goel) may be better understood as “Vindicator” (Oxford Annotated Study Bible, Job 19:25-27 n). No matter, whether the Redeemer/Vindicator is human, of the heavenly court, or even God, Job anticipates victory for his cause. Eventually he will stand in God’s presence and will receive justice. Coming as this does in the midst of Job’s torment, it is truly a startling comment. Job knows that there is justice to be had and that no matter how loathsome his condition he has recourse.

John’s account deals with the aftermath of Jesus healing a man of his blindness. Because the healing occurred on a Sabbath the religious leaders were upset. And though his parents are unwilling to get involved in the matter, the healed man himself is adamant. He might as well have quoted Job to the religious leaders: “I know that my Redeemer/Vindicator lives.” When pushed to defend his answer the healed man answers, “If this man were not from God, he could do nothing” (John 9:33). Coming in the midst of his conflict with the authorities this, too, is quite an affirmation. Not only has Jesus healed this man, but he has given the man the courage to state his convictions with clarity and poise. Later when they meet again the healed man makes his affirmation more precise, “Lord, I believe.” “And he worshipped him,” John adds (v.37).

We have a million choices to make every day, a million different things clamoring for our attention, our loyalty, our affirmation. Job and the man healed of his blindness each offer examples of people who made difficult choices at trying times, who followed their hearts and not the cajoling of others. We have a lot to learn from these men about courage and conviction.

Prayer: Lord, it is not always easy to affirm our faith. But by your grace we are your people. Bless us even when we are fickle, and guide us when we are lost. In Jesus’ name. Amen.