Sunday Readings: Isaiah 35.1-6,10 James 5.7-10 Matthew 11.2-11
When John the Baptist heard in prison of the works of the Christ, he sent a message by his disciples to ask, “Tell us, are you the one to come? Or should we expect someone else?” Jesus said, “Go tell John what you hear and see: the blind can see; the lame walk; lepers are cured; the deaf hear; the dead are raised to life, and the poor have the good news preached to them. Blessed are those who do not stumble because of me (Matthew 11.2-6).
As messiah, Jesus reveals the compassionate heart of God. He does not come to exert destructive judgmental power over a suffering people but to bring wholeness and salvation. This gospel calls Matthew’s community and us today to examine our expectations of God’s reign and receive the blessing Jesus extends to all who do not stumble at his mission of compassion but continue his lifegiving work.
Both John and Jesus are prophets and servants of God. They are not self-serving persons who gather and use power for earthly rewards. Both leaders teach that the reign of God comes through conversion of heart. Jesus calls us to bring others the compassion of God as he does. He calls us to be prophets of healing and hope. Jesus comes among us not as a powerful king or an apocalyptic judge but as a healing servant. We celebrate every Christmas the surprise of God sending a human baby to embody God’s own power and presence.
- What are you seeing with new eyes or hearing with open ears this Advent?