The Works of Hope: Answering John’s Question
“For the Souls in Purgatory – Eternal rest grant unto them O Lord”
Matthew 11:2-11
When John heard in prison of the works of the Messiah, he sent his disciples to ask him, “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 Scripture says: ‘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.”
Grace Prayed For
The grace of certainty in Christ’s identity and mission, even in times of suffering or doubt, and the courage to be a bold, humble witness who proclaims the tangible works of the Gospel (the healing, the good news) to those who seek hope.
Reflection
This passage resonates deeply with the human condition, even for the greatest of prophets. John the Baptist, the voice crying out in the wilderness, the man who prepared the way, now sits in prison, facing doubt. “Are you the one who is to come, or should we look for another?” This question, asked from the depths of John’s suffering, is an incredibly human moment of spiritual vulnerability. It shows us that even in our greatest moments of fidelity and witness, vigilance can be tested by darkness and despair.
My Trinitarian God, John’s question is often my own. When I am “in prison”—feeling stuck, facing failure, or overwhelmed by the world’s brokenness—I too can doubt the signs of Your coming. But Jesus’s response is not a mere statement; it is an invitation to see and hear the evidence of His love. “Go and tell John what you hear and see.” The works are the proof: the healing, the raising, the good news for the poor. Jesus has loved me and impacted my life not just with words, but with tangible, restorative acts of grace that fulfill the ancient prophecies. He calls me to move beyond speculation and to witness the ongoing impact of His Incarnation.
To grow in intimacy with the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit is to recognize that my mission of preparation and witness is not about my own strength, but about pointing to these works. Jesus challenges the crowd: Why did you go out? To see something impressive? No, you went out to see a prophet, a messenger who clears the path. This passage calls me to be that same fearless messenger, bearing witness to the certainty of Christ’s presence, especially when others are trapped by doubt or despair. It is my Baptismal duty to allow the love I have received—the restoration, the good news—to shine forth, making visible the Kingdom of Heaven in every encounter. When I live a life rooted in Christ’s works of mercy and justice, I not only prepare the way in my own heart but courageously proclaim the hope that He is the one who has come and will come again.
Daily Evangelization and Baptismal Mission
The core themes of this text—John’s preparation and Jesus’s rejoicing/witness through visible works—prompt specific ways to evangelize:
Speak Truth with Clarity (Restoring Clarity): Jesus affirms John as the one who prepares the way. You can do this by using your voice (in meetings, casual conversation, or social media) to calmly and clearly speak truth, justice, and charity. Preparation means clearing away the clutter of lies and cynicism. Example: Gently redirect a conversation from gossip to compassion, modeling the love and clarity Christ has given you.
When Time Allows Reflect on the Posts in Library and Musings
Sharing
Jesus last words on Earth were to his disciples, can be found in Matthew Chap 28 when Jesus told his disciples, “Then Jesus approached and said to them, “All power in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age.”
Jesus calls all of us to share in his redemptive mission here on Earth. I would ask you to share this Scripture reflection with your family, your friends and your acquaintances, and then share it with a couple of individuals that you may may not be comfortable sharing with, keeping in mind always the words of Jesus, And behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age
Author was assisted by AI in the drafting of this Post