12/10/19

Our scripture this week is Matthew 11:2-11.

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 11:4-6

Jesus points out the miracles of healing He performs as a response to John’s question for those around to hear. If this isn’t proof enough of who He is, what would convince unbelievers? Jesus doesn’t often call attention to what He has done for us and He ends His answer with a blessing to “anyone who does not stumble” on account of His teaching (verse 6).

John is not actually testing Jesus but having been imprisoned by Herod perhaps he needs some reassurance. Jesus gives him an answer that quotes portions of the book of Isaiah, one of Israel’s greatest prophets. John is considered to be the last prophet of Israel, a transition between the faith of the Old Testament and the promise of the New Covenant realized through Christ’s coming. This answer is both to assure John that he was not wrong about Jesus but also to let him know that his work and sacrifice were not forgotten – John will later be executed by King Herod.

Sometimes we all need reassurance from Jesus, support in our trials and the knowledge that our faith is in the One who came to save us for eternity. Like John, we may experience setbacks and suffering while we live – Jesus never promised it would be easy! – but we can be confident that our Savior lives and has reconciled us to God.

Heavenly Father, we are weak and often we question Your plan for us. Help us to see through the issues we face that You are with us and ready to guide us always. Amen.

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