The Messiah we await

Matthew 11: 2 - 11

"Are you the one who was to come or should we look for another?"

In these postmodern times, the world is looking for who or what will bring them fulfillment and the answer to their deepest dreams. And it seems that people are taking a variety of paths to realize their hopes. However, it is sad that every day, in many ways, we witness happenings that tell us that things are not quite right. Many of the paths have led people to dead ends. Moreover, some of the paths have led to narcissistic ways of living that push God out of the picture.

As a Christian I have to be honest and ask myself too who it is, how I understand Jesus whom I call my Savior. John the Baptist and his disciples came to a point in their lives (when John was imprisoned) when honest questions and some healthy doubts arose. And they brought these questions to Jesus himself. Perhaps because of John's circumstances, they began to ask themselves what kind of Messiah they were seeking. Was Jesus going to put an end to Roman rule? Was he a political Messiah?

Jesus set them straight on who he was. He came, certainly to deliver his people, but in a way that would bring wholeness to body and soul. Sometimes, this was manifested in extraordinary ways. At other times, there was a quieter inner healing that brought wholeness to broken spirits. Christmas will have true meaning when I recall the ways that our Lord has brought healing and wholeness into my life. For each of us this is a unique experience, for each one has his/her own story of brokenness. But indeed in this time of festivities, it would be fruitful to take a few moments each day to affirm who our Savior is and stay attentive to his loving presence and healing in our lives.