December 11, 2016: Third Sunday of Advent

When John the Baptist heard in prison of the works of the Christ, he sent his disciples to Jesus with this question, “Are you the one who is to come, or should we look for another?”
Jesus said to them in reply, “Go and tell John what you hear and see: the blind regain their sight, the lame walk, lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the poor have the good news proclaimed to them. And blessed is the one who takes no offense at me.”

As they were going off, Jesus began to speak to the crowds about John, “What did you go out to the desert to see? A reed swayed by the wind? Then what did you go out to see? Someone dressed in fine clothing? Those who wear fine clothing are in royal palaces. Then why 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:
Behold, I am sending my messenger ahead of you;
he will prepare your way before you.
Amen, I say to you, among those born of women there has been none greater than John the Baptist; yet the least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he.” (Matthew 11:2-11)

Reflection

“Are you the one who is to come or should we look for another?” I find myself asking questions very similar to John’s question to Jesus. The words I use are not an exact match – but the seeking is the same. How do I see Jesus in my daily life? Is this situation in my path part of God’s plan for me? If so, how can I be certain? Do I need to pay attention to something that keeps being raised in my daily reflection times? Why does this person in need keep showing up in my thoughts? I want CLEAR and DEFINITE answers!
Jesus’ response to John is “go and tell John what you hear and see.” Is it really that simple???? If I pay attention to what is around me and report in on what I hear and see, will it clarify for me what Jesus is asking of me? Will I get the answer that I seek? My honest answer is that I believe that I will. However, the response is not always in the time or manner in which I expect it to come!

Action

Tune in this week! Make a sincere effort to see and hear evidence of Jesus’ work in your daily life. Challenge yourself to share what you notice with a friend or as you write in your journal.