December 14, 2025: Third Sunday of Advent

Gospel: Matthew 11:2-11

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.”

Reflection

There’s a lot to reflect on here, but what strikes me most about this passage is Jesus’ proclamation that “(B)lessed is the one who takes no offense at me.”

People seem quick to take offense these days. As a bitterly divided nation, we tend to see each other in terms of “us” and “them.”

And is someone is speaking like a “them,” well, it’s easy to become offended! It takes a lot to put aside our reflexive objections and really listen to “the other side.”

But if we don’t – if we don’t learn how to build bridges and find common humanity among ourselves – this country doesn’t stand a chance.

Action

Look into groups like the Builders Movement, Braver Angels or Unite America.

Find someone on the “opposite” end of the political spectrum and try to find something you can both relate to – like being parents, or loving to cook.

Reject the instinct to retreat to your own “camp” without listening to both sides.