John the Baptist was a tough-talking prophet who had spent his whole life preparing people for the coming of the Messiah. In his final days, he ponders whether Jesus is that promised Messiah. So in faithful
hope, he sends Jesus a direct question: "Are you the one?" Jesus' response is not a simple “yes”. Rather, Jesus tells the messengers to advise John about what is happening so that he can work it out for himself.
There have been many people over the years who have gained admiration for what they have claimed they could do. However, we can
trust Jesus because of what we have seen and experienced Jesus already doing.
On Monday, I shared what I have experienced of Jesus, the creator, at work in my world. On Tuesday, we explored how we can live in a way that is
open to Jesus being active in our day. Finally, yesterday we thought about what areas we would like to experience Jesus at work in our lives.
Today we draw courage from what is already happening. How many stories have you
heard about people who have been blind to the truth about themselves or others or even about God? Then something happens, and their eyes are opened. Where may Jesus be active in that?
Have you perhaps known of someone who
has struggled with addiction or other temptations and found support to overcome what seeks to destroy them? Has Jesus been active there too? Do you know someone who has been deaf to the voice of God that has been so obvious, and something got them to hear and respond finally? Was that Jesus? Has a friend, family member, or even yourself been hungry for love and acceptance and now finally living in a healthy relationship? Did Jesus bring this to fruition? When last did you see a prayer for
healing be answered somehow?
Sometimes, Jesus does not work as we expect, but he works nonetheless.
How does Jesus answer your question asking him if he is the one?
