![A40742D0-D0A8-445E-A07B-D4D5B302707F[1].png](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5661ba24e4b054281a2bfd6f/1563994400962-D3O98SM98IWYVZPXBHPF/A40742D0-D0A8-445E-A07B-D4D5B302707F%5B1%5D.png)
“When John heard in prison what the Messiah was doing, he sent word by his disciples and said to him, “Are you the one who is to come, or are we to wait for another?” Jesus answered them, “Go and tell John what you hear and see: the blind receive their sight, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the poor have good news brought to them. And blessed is anyone who takes no offense at me.”
Jesus Praises John the Baptist
As they went away, Jesus began to speak to the crowds about John: “What did you go out into the wilderness to look at? A reed shaken by the wind? What then did you go out to see? Someone dressed in soft robes? Look, those who wear soft robes are in royal palaces. What then 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,
‘See, I am sending my messenger ahead of you,
who will prepare your way before you.’
Truly I tell you, among those born of women no one has arisen greater than John the Baptist; yet the least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he.”
My Two Cents….
The lectionary selection for next Sunday is a-seasonal. In a time of Christmas decorations, decking the halls, and holiday cheer, this reading from Matthew’s gospel seems misplaced. After all, it talks about John the Baptist’s imprisonment. Behind bars, John wonders if Jesus is ‘really the guy.’ Uncertainty is not a jolly feeling at all.
I don’t know about you, but I don’t like to be uncertain. Although I have been known to be a little on the messy side, I like things in order. Part of what attracts me to the season of Christmas its order: there are traditions to follow; decorations to arrange; lists to check off; and time honored schedules to keep. For me, Christmas has never been something to create anew but rather something to honor and cherish.
An uncertain prophet, jailed and awaiting execution, doesn’t quite fit the bill of Advent preparation and Christmas joy. And yet, here it is….. an uninvited reminder that the world - and my life - are anything but tidy. Disorder, injustice, violence, and fear inhabit the real world. My fantasy of order, mistletoe, and pristine celebration is what is out of place.
John the Baptist invites us back to our senses… take a look around and pay attention. Note how there is struggle, unease, disbelief, and pain. See in the midst of undesirable conditions the Christ who comes with a message of hope. God’s kingdom is not apart from but a part of life-as-it-is.
What is more, as a Christian, I am called to shine the light of Christ through my words and deeds. Oh sure, my light is dimmed on account of my own disbelief, confusion, and imperfection. Still, there is a light to shine that involves kindness, compassion, and generosity.
In Christ’s Light,
Walt
Permission granted to share today's content with family and friends. Copyrighted 2019. Walt Lichtenberger
Do you like reading Scripture to Start Your Week? Would you like to read more of Walt’s writing?
Why not try out the latest LIGHT FROM THIS HILL five-minute devotional - WELCOME; sharing in the greeting of God. It is 28 days of stories, reflections, Bible-based teaching, poems, and Inspirational Images. This devotional will both comfort and challenge - allowing your faith to grow. If you are not satisfied, Light From This Hill will refund your money so there is no risk.