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Neil Cudney explores the importance of recognising the agency of people with disabilities, highlighting Jesus’ question about wanting to be healed. He challenges us to pause and truly ask what others want, rather than assuming what’s best for them. This post calls for respect, belonging, and mutual dependence in how we support one another.
Photo by Myriam Zilles on Unsplash
WORD:
“When Jesus saw him lying there and learned that he had been in this condition for a long time, he asked him, ‘Do you want to get well?’“ (John 5:6, NIV)
THOUGHT:
This is a curious question that Jesus poses to the man at the pool of Bethesda. Isn’t it obvious? Jesus invites the man to express his own agency. Too often, things are done to and for people with disabilities without asking “is this what you want?”
PRAYER:
God, help us to stop and ask “Is this what you want?” Even when we believe that it is “for the best” or what needs to be done, may we never presume to remove the agency of another.
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About the Author:
Neil Cudney:
Dr. Neil Cudney is a respected voice in the global conversation on theology and disability. With extensive experience teaching on the theology of disability and accessible ministry, he has shared his expertise at conferences, seminaries, and colleges worldwide. Dr. Cudney's work reflects a deep commitment to fostering understanding, inclusion, and the transformative power of faith in the context of disability.
Recent Posts:
Neil Cudney explores the importance of recognising the agency of people with disabilities, highlighting Jesus’ question about wanting to be healed. He challenges us to pause and truly ask what others want, rather than assuming what’s best for them. This post calls for respect, belonging, and mutual dependence in how we support one another.
Photo by Myriam Zilles on Unsplash
WORD:
“When Jesus saw him lying there and learned that he had been in this condition for a long time, he asked him, ‘Do you want to get well?’“ (John 5:6, NIV)
THOUGHT:
This is a curious question that Jesus poses to the man at the pool of Bethesda. Isn’t it obvious? Jesus invites the man to express his own agency. Too often, things are done to and for people with disabilities without asking “is this what you want?”
PRAYER:
God, help us to stop and ask “Is this what you want?” Even when we believe that it is “for the best” or what needs to be done, may we never presume to remove the agency of another.