HEARING FOR THE FIRST TIME
Researchers in Sweden and China have teamed up to treat a form of congenital deafness caused by mutations in a gene called OTOF. These mutations result in a deficiency of a protein that transmits signals from the ear to the brain. The experimental treatment involves injecting each person with a synthetic virus that carries a functioning version of the gene. All ten subjects reported significant hearing recovery in as short as one month, with results still in effect a year later. “This is a huge step forward in the genetic treatment of deafness,” said Dr. Maoli Duan, of the Karolinska Institute in Sweden, who led the study, “one that can be life-changing for children and adults. We are expanding our work.”

HEARING A CALL FROM GOD
This week’s reading is one of the most striking biblical accounts of encountering God. The prophet Isaiah comes face to face with the pure holiness of God, and he sees himself accurately in that light. He feels his sinfulness keenly and knows that if the Lord does not grant mercy, he will be undone. God is gracious and atones for Isaiah’s guilt—then suddenly Isaiah hears the voice of the Lord calling for someone to be His servant.

Questions

• What’s the most incredible modern story of someone regaining hearing or sight that you know of?
• When have you been overwhelmed by the holiness of God?
• How has spending time with the Lord changed you?