Although first discovered by my optometrist Dr. Paul Gamertsfelder during a routine exam in 1991, the 14 years of subsequent laser surgeries by renowned OSU ophthalmologist Dr. Frederick H. Davidorf could not stop ocular histoplasmosis from destroying about 95% of the light receptors in my eyes (retinas). Declared legally blind in the Summer of 2005, I felt like a good-for-nothing bummed out recluse. 

 

Loss of sight, like any adversity, was devastating. Knowing how they felt, I cried out in faith to the Great Physician with the blind men of old, "Have mercy on me!" Jesus heard my (our) lament and touched me (us) with His healing words:

 

Become What You Believe.

 

They saw with visual acuity of the eyes.

 

I can see too--in a very different way. How? In a word, missionally. Spiritual Formation begins with a prayer, "O God, Form Yourself In Me!"

 

I quit focusing on the adversity and began appreciating the gift. Now I take limitations in stride and with good cheer. How? I just let Christ take over! He said, “My grace is enough; it’s all you need.” And so the weaker I get, the stronger I become. Spiritual Formation has helped me become what I believe.

 

Now, as a CWW®, I am being what I have become: Missional. My heart breaks for the confused and aimless of our day. Do you see the bruised and hurt lives all around us, too? Whether you are an Adherent of or Unclaimed by the Local Church, together we can be the healing hands and feet of our Great Shepherd. 

 

Thomas Jacob, D.Min.