False Expectations

In our pluralistic culture, there are many who do not know the true identity of Jesus. This problem of recognition is not greatly different from how it was at the time of Jesus. Recognizing and acknowledging Jesus is at the heart of our faith. Luke is intent on telling the story of Jesus so we will know who he is—the Messiah, the Promised One of Israel. There is much that can prevent even those of us within the faith from seeing as we ought.

John the Baptist had a special role in the launch of the ministry of Jesus. It was John who prepared the way, baptized Jesus and declared him the “Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world” (John 1:29). But now John is in prison for boldly speaking against the immoral actions of the cultural leaders. Reports have come to John about the activity of Jesus in healing the sick and raising the dead. John’s expectation was not just for miraculous works of Jesus but for a defeat of the powers. And so comes the question from John through his disciples: “Are you the One who is to come, or shall we look for another?”

John was led to ask this question of Jesus because his expectations were not being fulfilled. The signs that Jesus enacted were clear indicators that he was the Messiah—but they were just the beginning. John, it seems, wanted things to happen on a different schedule. Such moments of doubt, impatience or loss of confidence, which any of us may have, can best be corrected by a renewed trust in the one John affirmed as the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.

Respond in Prayer

Lord Jesus, I thank you for the works you have performed and the words you have spoken. Forgive my efforts to manage you according to my own needs and expectations. Give me humility of spirit that I may know you aright and follow you faithfully. Amen.

John Franklin

Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version® (NIV®).