December 16, 2015

Lk 7: 18b-23

The disciples of John reported all these things to him. So John summoned two of his disciples and sent them to the Lord to ask, “Are you the one who is to come, or are we to wait for another?” When the men had come to him, they said, “John the Baptist has sent us to you to ask, ‘Are you the one who is to come, or are we to wait for another?’” Jesus had just then cured many people of diseases, plagues, and evil spirits, and had given sight to many who were blind. And he answered them, “Go and tell John what you have seen and heard: the blind receive their sight, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, the poor have good news brought to them. And blessed is anyone who takes no offense at me.” New Revised Standard Version, copyright 1989, by the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved. USCCB approved. http://www.usccb.org/bible/approved-translation

That Leap of Faith

John the Baptist sends his followers to ask Jesus about his claim to be God's anointed Messiah. Does it appear that John had doubts about Jesus, especially after announcing Jesus' mission at the River Jordan when he exclaimed, “Behold the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world” (John 1:29)?  Pastor Scott L. Harris writes that “While doubt can show a lack of faith, which in particular situations could even be sinful, for the most part, doubt is simply the expression of uncertainty.” With all of the miracles that Jesus was performing, why did people still hesitate? Why was there uncertainty? Maybe John sent his followers to Jesus because he wanted them to hear and see firsthand for themselves the signs and proof that the Savior had indeed come in the person of his cousin, Jesus Christ. So is your faith based upon certainty and proof, or is it based upon something more? —John and Katie Nicolau are active members of Our Lady of Perpetual Help parish in Glenview IL, where they have lived for over 23 years. They have been married for 32 years and have 4 children, three of whom graduated from Loyola Academy, Wilmette, IL, John’s alma mater. John also serves on the board of Charis, a Jesuit ministry for young adults.

Prayer

Merciful God, you sent John the Baptist to prepare the people for the coming of your Son, Jesus. In this season of Advent, help us to prepare for his coming as well. Help us to use this time of waiting to make positive changes in our lives and the lives of others around the world. We ask this through Jesus our Savior. Amen.
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