In this week’s message from Pleasant Valley Church of the Brethren in Weyers Cave, Virginia, Pastor Harry Jarrett reflects on John 9, and the troubling question Jesus’ disciples ask when they encounter a man born blind: “Who sinned?” Rather than accepting a theology that blames suffering on personal failure or family guilt, Jesus refuses the framework entirely and turns toward the hurting person with compassion, presence, and healing.

This sermon invites us to examine the kinds of questions we ask when we are faced with pain, loss, or hardship. Are we asking questions that assign blame, keep our distance, and protect our assumptions? Or are we asking better questions, questions that move us closer to those who suffer and open us to the healing work of God?

With pastoral depth and vivid imagery, Pastor Harry explores how Jesus responds not with abstract explanation but with embodied grace. Kneeling in the dirt, making mud, and touching what others avoid, Jesus reveals a way of love that is personal, courageous, and restorative. This episode challenges listeners to let go of harmful spiritual assumptions and to follow Christ into the mud of real human need.

This is a message for anyone wrestling with suffering, faith, healing, and the call to be present with others in their pain. It is also a timely word for the church as we learn again how to seek compassion over condemnation and presence over easy answers.

Listen, reflect, and consider what better questions God may be calling you to ask.

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Learn more about Pleasant Valley Church of the Brethren:https://pleasantvalleyalive.org/

Explore the online discussion and study guides for this sermon:https://discipleship.pleasantvalleyalive.org/

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