I love finding redemptive stories in the newspaper. Today’s Chicago Tribune featured a front page article entitled “A Family Vision: Blind couple adopt 2 blind orphans.” (see the photos from the story here)

The article tells of a middle aged couple–both legally blind themselves–who decided to adopt two little girls, one from India, one from China. Both girls, ages 10 and 6, are also blind.

Throughout the world, little girls, even healthy ones, are often seen as a liability. They are often unwanted. But not Rupa and Aihua, adopted by Paula and Alan Sprecher of Chicago. The story inspires on many levels. “We knew there were children out there who were given up (because they were blind), and we wanted to provide a home for someone like us, for someone we thought we could help,” Paula Sprecher told the Tribune. They are teaching the girls to navigate riding the CTA, going to school, and even participating in Girl Scouts.

In a world full of war and pain, the Light still shines through the cracks. The story reminded me of a passage in the gospels:

“When John (the Baptist), who was in prison, heard about the deeds of the Messiah, he sent his disciples to ask him, “Are you the one who is to come, or should we expect someone else?”

Jesus replied, “Go back and report to John what you hear and see: The blind receive sight, the lame walk, those who have leprosy are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the good news is proclaimed to the poor. Blessed is anyone who does not stumble on account of me.” (Matthew 11:2-6)

This family, though legally blind, has a vision few possess. They’ve proclaimed good news to the poor–“You are wanted, you are loved!”–and in so doing, received sight that few possess.