Matthew 11: 2-6

“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?’” vss. 2-3

John was confused. He’d had an inkling that Jesus might be the messiah, the one sent by God to restore Israel, but initial reports had been disappointing. Jesus had shown no inclination to raise an army, he didn’t encourage his followers to arm themselves, and he’d actually sat at table with Pharisees, the same folks John had labelled a brood of vipers. So John sent his disciples with a question, “Are you the one?’ The confusion was perfectly understandable. We deal with the same issue: there are still messiah types wandering around, among them the usual tough-minded, showy, powerful, triumphalists asking followers to get weapons and get ready for a battle to the end against shadowy foes. True disciples of Jesus will turn their backs on such charlatans, and continue his gentle revolution by walking in his way. We see such disciples all around: they’re the ones laboring to ensure that hurting people find healing, that a message of life is lived and proclaimed, and that the poor continually hear good news. As we join their cause we are blessed to the core and know in our hearts that there is no need to wait for another messiah. The truly mighty one has already come!

Thought for the Day: What’s so appealing about tough-acting messiahs?