Sunday of the Third Week of Advent

San Fernando Cathedral, San Antonio, Texas

A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew  11:2-11

When John the Baptist heard in prison of the works of the Christ, he sent his disciples to Jesus with this question, "Are you the one who is to come, or should we look for another?"  Jesus said to them in reply, "Go and tell John what you hear and see:  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.  And blessed is the one who takes no offense at me." 

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?  Then what did you go out to see?  Someone dressed in fine clothing?  Those who wear fine clothing are in royal palaces.  Then why 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 writing:

Behold, I am sending my messenger ahead of you; he will prepare your way before you.

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."

John the Baptist himself - the one preparing the way for the Lord - asks for verification that this is it, Jesus is the one.  And Jesus provides the evidence for John.  He doesn't ask why John fails to know this, he doesn't blame the Baptist for needing to know.  He simply provides what John needs to know.

Just as he does for Thomas after his resurrection.  He doesn't blame Thomas, he just asks Thomas to do what he needs to to do believe:  "Put your finger here, and see my hands; and put your your hand and place it in my side; do not be faithless, but believing."  John 20:27

Today my prayer is to be among the "Blessed are those who have not seen and yet believe."