Gospel: Matthew 11:2-11

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 offence at me.’ 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.

Matthew 11,2-11

Reflection:

Our gospel for today is from Matthew 11:2-11 which tells about John the Baptist. In the gospel, we can see evidence that John the Baptist prepared the people about the coming of Jesus. 

The real comfort in the gospel from Matthew 11:2-11 is that John the Baptists knew from the very start about Jesus. John is the great messenger destined to tell and prepare the way of Jesus. Did you know that John the Baptist and Jesus were cousins? Yes, they are and even though John knew about this, he was there being the true messenger of God.

In Matthew 11: 2-11, John the Baptist is talking about the preparation for the coming of the Messiah. We can actually link this to our recent daily routine as people of God. We are now in the second week of advent and we are preparing our way for the birth of Jesus our savior.

The true message of thew gospel from Matthew 11:2-11 is for us to prepare ourselves for the birth of the son of God. December is our own way of preparations and many of us don’t know the real meaning of these preparations.

Matthew 11:2-11 is telling us to prepare our souls. Christmas is not about the lavish preparations and decorations. Instead, it is to prepare your body as the temple of God. It is to prepare your soul for His coming. 

December is the time for forgiveness, almsgiving, doing charity and helping the sick. By doing this, you are one step closer to your goal to welcome Christ Jesus in your home. No matter how small your contribution is, you are blest.

So, my dear friends, brothers and sisters in Christ we must do as what John the Baptist told us. We must light the way and prepare for our King, Lord Jesus Christ. – Clea | Helpline PH