"Past Miracles" Problems

As Jesus was walking along, he saw a man who had been blind from birth. “Rabbi,” his disciples asked him, “why was this man born blind? Was it because of his own sins or his parents’ sins?” “It was not because of his sins or his parents’ sins,” Jesus answered. “This happened so the power of God could be seen in him. We must quickly carry out the tasks assigned us by the one who sent us. The night is coming, and then no one can work. But while I am here in the world, I am the light of the world.” [John 9.1-5]

I suppose there are those who believe this passage of scripture is proof that miracles of healing were only for the time Jesus walked the earth. Admittedly, at first reading through this passage, I can see how we could think that could be the case. However, as I read the entirety of the passage, and although it remains difficult to understand, I find more problems proving this passage means healing is "passed away" than I do in proving it otherwise.

The problem I see with saying this passage proves miracles are past, is the statement Jesus made that "The night is coming, and then no one can work. But while I am here in the world, I am the light of the world." Ironically this would be the same passage to prove miracles are past!

"Past miracles" proponents would argue that this passage means that after Jesus ascension back into heaven, miracles are no longer valid. The problem I see with this however is believing that we are now living in darkness and without light. How can we declare on one hand that Jesus has come to live in our hearts and lives by faith, and then on the other hand declare that we are living in darkness - without light?

Furthermore, if Jesus words, "We must quickly carry out the tasks assigned us..." are used to argue in support of the "past miracles" doctrine, then does that mean (even if we can reconcile the "living in darkness" idea) that there is now no need to hurry about God's work - or even that God's work is no longer necessary because the Light is gone?

So, although Jesus' words here in John 9.1-5 are indeed puzzling, I cannot, in the context of the entire Bible, conclude that miracles or "the tasks assigned to us by the one who sent us" are no longer valid. It just doesn't work with the entire message of the Bible.

Father, You know my heart and my desire to see Truth in Your Word. Help me to get past any preconceived notions of Who You Are and simply learn from Your Word Who You Are. Please, keep me from pride and its subsequent error.