Our scripture this week is Matthew 11:2-11.
When John, 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.” As John’s disciples were leaving, Jesus began to speak to the crowd about John: “What did you go out into the wilderness to see? A reed swayed by the wind? If not, what did you go out to see? A man dressed in fine clothes? No, those who wear fine clothes are in kings’ palaces. Then what did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet. This is the one about whom it is written: “‘I will send my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way before you.’ Truly I tell you, among those born of women there has not risen anyone greater than John the Baptist; yet whoever is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he.
Matthew 11:2-11
In this week’s lesson we hear of John’s disciples going to Jesus with a question from John, who has been imprisoned. It is a fair question – “Are you the one who is to come, or should we expect someone else?” John is probably not asking for himself, he is fully aware of Jesus’ identity as the Messiah, but it gives his followers and those around Jesus a chance to hear the answer themselves.
John is also concerned for his followers and is using this as a “handoff” of them to Jesus. Perhaps we need to be “handed off” in this season of Advent, asking to be reconnected to the One who has come for us. Jesus waits for each of us to answer the question and decide if we believe He is the Messiah.
We have individual responsibility for our acceptance of Christ as our Savior, no one else can do it for us. We can share the Good News and show His love for us, but the decision is up to each person themselves. In this season of Advent, may we be ready to say “yes” to His presence in our lives and show the world He lives in us.
Loving Lord, we question Your kingship and authority every time we stray from Your path. Help us to see that You alone are God, the answer to all our questions and needs. Amen.