Good news

Jesus answered, ‘Go back and tell John what you are hearing and seeing: the blind can see, the lame can walk, those who suffer from dreaded skin diseases are made clean, the deaf hear, the dead are brought back to life, and the Good News is preached to the poor. How happy are those who have no doubts about me!’ (verses 4-6)

Read Matthew 11:2-11

Nowhere is it made clearer than in this text that Jesus is concerned not only with saving people’s souls but also their bodies. The physical ailments of these people alienated them in one way or another from their family and friends. By healing them, Jesus restores them to their loved ones. They are able to take their rightful place in society again. They can resume the relationships that God himself ordained and created. They are also allowed back into the temple to worship. We see here how God demonstrates his concern for every area of our life.

 The good news, Jesus says, is preached to the poor. These are the people for whom life has no rewards. But Jesus gives them more than food and clothing. He gives them hope, the promise of life that is eternal.

 Are you someone with doubts, like John the Baptist? Don’t have any doubts about Jesus and what he can do for you. Recognise his concern for your body and soul. The good news is for you — every part of you.

Jesus, thank you for the good news that gives life in all its fullness, physically and spiritually. Amen.

by Janet Eiby, in ‘Refreshment for each Day’ (LCA, Openbook, 2003)

Visit the Daily Devotion archives page.