Gospel
Matthew 11:2-11
2 When John the Baptist heard in prison of the works of the Christ, he sent his disciples to Jesus 3 with this question, “Are you the one who is to come, or should we look for another?” 4 Jesus said to them in reply, “Go and tell John what you hear and see: 5 the blind regain their sight, the lame walk, lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the poor have the good news proclaimed to them. 6 And blessed is the one who takes no offense at me.” 7 As they were going off, Jesus began to speak to the crowds about John, “What did you go out to the desert to see? A reed swayed by the wind? 8 Then what did you go out to see? Someone dressed in fine clothing? Those who wear fine clothing are in royal palaces. 9 Then why did you go out? To see a prophet? Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet. 10 This is the one about whom it is written: Behold, I am sending my messenger ahead of you; he will prepare your way before you. 11 Amen, I say to you, among those born of women there has been none greater than John the Baptist; yet the least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he.”
Historical Background
John the Baptist is imprisoned by Herod Antipas. He had boldly confronted Herod’s immoral actions, and now he awaited his fate in a dark, isolated cell. From prison, he hears reports about Jesus’ ministry—healings, teachings, miracles—and sends his disciples to ask Jesus directly: “Are you the one who is to come?”
This moment reveals the tension of the time. Many Jews expected a political Messiah who would overthrow Roman oppression. Jesus, however, was revealing a different kind of kingdom—one marked by healing, mercy, and restoration. John’s question reflects the longing of Israel, the ache of waiting, and the human desire for clarity in moments of suffering.
Theological Context
Jesus responds not with a title but with evidence: “The blind see, the lame walk, lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the poor have the good news proclaimed to them.” These signs echo Isaiah’s prophecies about the Messiah. Jesus is saying: “Yes, I am the One—but
My kingdom unfolds through compassion, not conquest.”
He then honors John publicly, calling him more than a prophet and the greatest born of women. Yet He adds a paradox: “The least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he.” This reveals a profound truth: the new covenant brings an intimacy with God that even the greatest Old Testament prophet could not yet experience.
Learning Lessons
Even the faithful experience doubt. John, the fiery prophet, needed reassurance. Doubt is not failure—it’s part of the journey. Jesus answers with presence, not explanations. He points to what God is doing, not to abstract arguments.
God’s kingdom grows quietly. Healing, mercy, and good news to the poor are the true signs of divine power.
Greatness in God’s eyes is different from greatness in the world. Humility, openness, and trust draw us closest to Him.
Reflection for the Day
Where in your life are you waiting for God to move? Where do you feel like John—uncertain, tired, or longing for clarity? And where might Jesus already be at work, quietly healing, restoring, and opening new paths? Sometimes the answer to our prayers is already unfolding, but we need the eyes to see it.
“Are You the One?”
In the dim light of a prison cell
a prophet whispers his last question,
not out of weakness
but out of longing.
And You, O Christ,
do not scold the trembling heart—
You simply point
to the blind who now see,
the broken who now dance,
the forgotten who now rise.
Your kingdom comes softly,
like dawn through a narrow window,
like hope returning
to a weary soul.
Teach me to look for You
in the quiet miracles—
the healing I almost missed,
the mercy I did not expect,
the joy that grows
in hidden places.
Lord Jesus,
When my heart feels uncertain, meet me the way You met John— with signs of Your goodness, with reminders of Your nearness, with the quiet strength of Your love.
Open my eyes to the ways You are already healing my life. Open my ears to the good news You speak into my fears. Open my heart to trust You more deeply today.
Make me a witness of Your compassion, a bearer of Your hope, and a humble servant of Your kingdom.
Amen.
Pericope:
IV: Opposition from Israel
THE MESSENGERS FROM JOHN THE BAPTIST / JESUS' TESTIMONY TO JOHN
Matthew 11:2-6 / 7-19
Gospel Acclamation
The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to bring glad tidings to the poor.
Reflection Source:
