You shall not curse the deaf or put a stumbling block before the blind, but you shall fear your God: I am the Lord. Leviticus 19:14
This seems like such an obvious instruction that I’m embarrassed it had to be said. Who would be so cruel as to trip a blind person? Compassion should come in abundance for anyone with extra needs. Those that are most vulnerable or have difficulty fending for themselves are always objects of God’s special protection and mercy.
Think of the particular malice involved. A deaf person who has been cursed doesn’t know it. He didn’t hear it and can’t defend himself - but others may treat him differently because of it. A blind person may not know that they were tripped, thinking it was just an accidental fall. It may physically harm him or lead to a less mobile life as he loses his confidence in the surroundings. He doesn’t realize the stumbling is at the hand of another.
“But you shall fear your God.”
God sees (and hears), even if they don’t – and He will defend. Just because you think someone will not know doesn’t excuse any of us from being unkind.
Fortunately today we have extra protections for people with these kinds of disabilities (sad that we would need them). My family includes those that have overcome these limitations to lead productive lives investing in others.
But there are other struggles among us. There are many in our neighborhoods that have spiritual ears that don’t hear and eyes that don’t see. Shouldn’t we be just as careful not to stumble them?
When someone chooses not to listen to God, our interactions may lead to frustration. Yet to dismiss or ignore him may be like a curse, even if he doesn’t notice. He deserves my compassion; in the hope his heart will turn, just as God has compassion on me. And those who are spiritually blind – shouldn’t I take great care to live in a way that won't lead them to stumble? Gentleness and humility should reign.
Compassion and mercy should also be for those in spiritual need. It’s only when I sense my own blindness, my own deafness, that I’m able to thank God for His loving-kindness and extend it to others as well.
"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."
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