Matthew 11:7-15
Find a place and time free of distractions for the next 7-10 minutes. Sit comfortably and breathe deeply for a few seconds before you begin. As you breathe in, say the name of Jesus and become aware of his presence with you. As you breathe out, open your mind and heart to receive whatever Jesus has for you today.
In our last passage, Jesus addressed the questions of John the Baptizer by quoting the Prophet Isaiah’s words about the ministry of the Messiah. Today we hear Jesus affirm John and point to events that have already been set in motion. Read Matthew 11:7-15 noting anything that stands out to you or any questions that arise.
Jesus does not condemn John for his questions; Jesus assures John by pointing to the evidence of his identity. And then Jesus turns to the crowds and speaks highly of John’s character. John’s questions do not make him wishy-washy, nor do they mean that he is unwilling to suffer for the sake of the Good News. John is the forerunner of the Messiah, and Jesus holds him in high regard – questions and all.
Stop to consider the times you have had questions for God. How do you feel about needing answers or evidence? How do you perceive God’s reaction to your questions? Share these thoughts and feelings with Jesus.
Read Matthew 11:7-15 again focusing on Jesus’ words about the coming of the Kingdom of God.
John’s ministry was the initial turning point that ushered in the Kingdom of God through the ministry of Jesus. Yet John died before Jesus accomplished all he set out to do.
John did not live to see Jesus take upon himself the full consequence of human rebellion, and John did not witness Jesus allowing the full force of evil to be emptied out on him as it sought to destroy his life. John did not know that Jesus’ innocent death would empty evil of its power to enslave humans, and he did not observe Jesus taking back his life and opening a way for humans to be restored to God and restored to be the people God created them to be.
Every one of us who lives on this side of the cross and the resurrection has an even greater opportunity than John. He pointed to the in-breaking of the Kingdom of God; we live in the time of the in-breaking of God’s Kingdom. And each of us has the opportunity to come under the good rule and way of Jesus and spread shalom to the people we encounter each day.
For the last few minutes of this meditation, get still and center yourself on Jesus. Try breathing in the name of Jesus and exhaling any intruding thoughts.
When you have been still for a while, listen to see if Jesus has something to say to you today.
If you sense Jesus inviting you to do something, make a plan to follow through.
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