Jesus and John the Baptist were cousins – but how did they see each other?
We know that John didn’t consider himself worthy of being baptized by Jesus, and in the Gospel of John we see John the Baptist telling his followers to follow Jesus, and he called Jesus the “Lamb of God”. John understands a lot about who Jesus is, but in Matthew 11, it seems that John is questioning Jesus – is He really the Messiah?
Jesus, in His typical way, does not give a straight answer, but points to the actions He is doing – fulfilling verses in Isaiah. He also challenges His contemporaries – John was dire and somber – but you did not listen. Jesus celebrated and spent time eating – but you still did not listen. What more can God do to get your attention?
Sometimes I am in the same position – God brings strong, in your face people into my life – but I still don’t change. Then I have a gentle, encouraging person in my life – and I still don’t change. I need both types, but more than anything I need to hear the voice of the Lord challenge me personally – then make a choice to change.