Hope for the Suffering

Luke 7:18-23 (NASB) 2020 edition

18 The disciples of John also reported to him about all these things.
19 And after summoning two of his disciples, John sent them to the Lord, saying, “Are You the Coming One, or are we to look for another?”
20 When the men came to Him, they said, “John the Baptist has sent us to You, saying, ‘Are You the Coming One, or are we to look for another?’”
21 At that very time He cured many people of diseases and afflictions and evil spirits, and He gave sight to many who were blind.
22 And He answered and said to them, “Go and report to John what you have seen and heard: people who were blind receive sight, people who limp walk, people with leprosy are cleansed, and people who are deaf hear, dead people are raised up, and people who are poor have the gospel preached to them.
23 And blessed is anyone who does not take offense at Me.

REFLECTION

What Hope Is There for Those Who Suffer?

In this passage, we see that John the Baptist sent his disciples to find out if the one performing wonders was truly the expected Messiah. I wonder if the miracles of Jesus were enough for people to believe in Him. It is in this context that Jesus performed wonders and miracles, displaying the glory of God and offering hope to the lost, the sick, and the outcast.

Beyond the miracles and wonders was the person of Christ, who brings healing to both body and soul at the same time.

This Christmas, as we remember the coming of Christ through His birth, we must recognize and be confident that He came to set us free and give us the hope of life, despite our suffering, anguish, or defeats. He has the power to heal us, redeem us from our sinful nature, and make us free for the glory of God.

PRAYER

Lord, we acknowledge that You came to earth to give us hope in difficulty, forgiveness of our sins, and salvation for our lives. May this season be a time to remember that Jesus came down, died, and rose again for my sins, giving me the hope of being with You and spending all eternity by Your side. Amen.

Written by Juan Tamayo (Chile), Companion, Missional Base Jerez.