Matthew 11:2-10
What kind
of good news could Jesus have been giving to the poor? Whatever he said, it had
an effect as dramatic as giving sight to the blind and hearing to the
deaf. This good news causes the poor no
longer to act like the poor are expected to act, but to throw away their
impediments and stand tall on their own, just like the lame who heard it and now
walk without a crutch.
Even in
jail, John realizes that this good news to the poor is what he has been waiting
for. Now poor people are transformed into people empowered to change the world.
They too can make demands and Jesus says he hears them. What a scary thought for those who are living
in comfort!
Jesus
identifies John as one who does not live in comfort, who is imprisoned for
being on the side of those for whom this news is thrilling. How about us? Are
we one of those offended by the poor and socially marginalized being assertive
and self-respecting, responding to the respect that Jesus has shown them? Do we
listen to what they say for themselves? If we are not frightened or offended,
but rejoice to announce respect by and for the poor among us as the best of
good news, Jesus calls us blessed.
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