Grow Guide | February 22, 2026
Text Study for Sunday, February 22, 2026
Series Theme: That They May All Be One
Reading: John 9:24-38
CONNECTING QUESTIONS
Tell about a time you could not see very well.
PRAYER FOR ILLUMINATION
Merciful God, accompany our journey through these forty days. Renew us in the gift of baptism, that we may provide for those who are poor, pray for those in need, fast from self-indulgence, and above all that we may find our treasure in the life of your Son, Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord, Amen.
CONTEXT
Our series, That They May All Be One, we focus on Jesus life and ministry as he journeys to the cross. Easter people we are also on a journey! A journey for Easter church to settle into one building together. A journey to rediscover Christianity that prioritizes care for our neighbor and discipleship that mirrors the transformative love of Jesus. A journey to notice Jesus in unexpected ways and as he unites us all in his life, death and resurrection. John 17:20-21 “I ask not only on behalf of these but also on behalf of those who believe in me through their word, that they may all be one. As you, Father, are in me and I am in you, may they also be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me.” Jesus does not let anyone remain in suffering or without community. Jesus calls us together! What will you do this Lent to come to closer to Jesus and to everyone in our community? How will we share God’s love in Jesus together, as one people?
From Dr Craig Koester at EntertheBible.org:
Jesus does not heal the man immediately. Rather, he puts mud on the man’s eyes and tells him to go and wash. Just as was the case for the man unable to walk in chapter 5, Jesus’ words prompt the man to go and wash. In both circumstances, they obey Jesus’ words which recalls the words of Jesus’ mother at the wedding at Cana – “do whatever he tells you.” To do what Jesus says leads to life. The man born blind obeys Jesus even before he has received his sight, and for much of the chapter the man will bear witness to a Jesus whom he has never seen. That makes the story especially valuable for readers living in later generations, since they too must bear witness to a Jesus whom they have never seen apart from the eyes of faith.
LOOK AT THE BOOK
How is it with your spirit this week?
What was one take-away from listening to the Carry On Cast podcast that connects with this Grow Guide?
How does Lent speak to you? What is Lent’s message in your life?
How does chapter 9:1-2 open? What’s the problem and what do people think the source of the problem is?
Jesus frequently turns norms upside down and crosses social boundaries. What do you make of verse six’s “earthy” approach? Saliva was thought—at that time in history—to have healing properties.
What happens to the man in verse 34? Why does this happen?
What happens in verse 35, after he is driven out of his home and community? How is this like a second healing story?
In what ways can Easter Lutheran Church embody being the “light of the world?”
How is Jesus good news for us this week?
What would you like to talk about that we have not yet?
TAKING IT HOME
Invite someone to read the book “Stranger God” by Richard Beck with you this Lent! Start reading now.
Find study guide, family resources, scripture readings, and more: easter.org/easter
Sending Prayer
Holy God, you reveal your glory in Jesus Christ and make your people one in his name. Transform us through him and shine your light on the whole world, that we would move into the future you have for us with confidence and joy in his holy name. Amen.