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 written: 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."
REFLECTION: "Are you the one who is to come, or should we look for another?"
Today is Gaudete Sunday--the third candle on the wreath is rose and we suspend penance for the joy we have that we are half way toward Christmas. It is a time of joy and expectation.
John the Baptist was in prison and in the dank of his prison cell he called out to his followers to see if truly Jesus was the Messiah. John the Baptist's time was short and he was worried about his followers. He wanted to reassure his followers that indeed Jesus was the one. And through patience, hardship and no complaining, St John the Baptist was able to lead his followers to Jesus, the Messiah.
Rejoice, the Lord is near!!!
