Before John's imprisonment (Mt 11), God had used John the Baptist to preach a powerful message of repentance for the forgiveness of sins that turned many people's hearts to God. It must have now been hard for his disciples to see him bound and unable to continue his work. But they were amazed at how powerfully God seemed to be working through Jesus.

When John sent two of his disciples to inquire of Jesus, Jesus told them to report back to John what they have seen and heard: "The blind receive sight, the lame walk, those who have leprosy are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the good news is proclaimed to the poor." The words reflect what Isaiah prophesied, especially in Isaiah chapters 35 and 61.

When our own ministry or work seems to be struggling, we don't have to dwell in a sense of defeat. Sometimes we just need to look around to acknowledge that God is still working mightily through his Holy Spirit. We are not alone in God's big picture and plan.


Application: Lord, even in the time of trials, open our eyes to see how you are working to heal and to plant hope all around us.
One Word: Open our eyes and ears.