About a year ago, I had cataract surgery. I was amazed at the clarity of my sight almost immediately. Prior to that I was struggling with my vision and failed my annual vision test. I never had to resort to bifocals, but if I had, I would certainly have to thank Ben Franklin. On this day in history, 1785 Ben sent a letter revealing his design for bifocal lenses, which would improve both near and far distance. He was well known for his part in the formation of the constitution of the United States. He was a statesman and traveled to various foreign countries as an ambassador of our country. He was also an inventor. This time in history was one of invention. He was best known for his invention of the lightening rod but was responsible for many more revolutionary ideas.

When our vision is impaired or lost, we are put into a very vulnerable position. Up until a year ago, my sight was one of the few senses I had left. I can’t imagine what it would be like not to see my garden coming to life this spring – or gazing into the eyes of a newborn child – or being able to see my husband’s face every day, but our senses do wear out eventually and we must rely on ways to fix them and those who know how to do so.

When Jesus walked the earth in human form, He displayed his Godliness by healing those with various ailments. The blind would have their sight restored with a touch or a word. How wonderful to see for the first time or to be healed from blindness. We can still receive healing from God through our prayers and petitions. Science has brought about many changes in what can be accomplished for the benefit of the human body. This is initially brought about by God instilling knowledge into man’s brain and giving them the talent to find answers when we need His vision.

We thank God for all our faculties. When we lose even one of our senses, we find ourselves at a great loss. Our prayers will lead to answers, to inventions, to scientific discovery and to the power of God’s almighty healing. We are truly blessed with amazing grace. In fact, John Newton wrote a hymn in 1769 (only sixteen years before Franklin invented bifocals,) which refers to this wonderful gift from God.

Amazing grace, how sweet the sound,
that saved a wretch like me!
I once was lost, but now am found,
was blind, but now I see.