July 20, 2023
John the Baptist sent his disciples to Jesus, to ask him a question of great importance. They asked Jesus if he was “the one or should they keep looking.” Should they look for someone else? Jesus answered by telling those sent to tell John that the blind receive sight, the lame walk, the leper is cleansed, and the poor hear the gospel. John’s disciples went to talk with Jesus. The encounter is recorded for us in this passage.
“And John calling unto him two of his disciples, sent them to Jesus, saying, Art thou he that should come? Or look we for another? When the men were come unto him, they said, John the Baptist hath sent us unto thee, saying, Art thou he that should come? Or look we for another? And in that same hour he cured many of their infirmities and plagues, and of evil spirits; and unto many that were blind he gave sight. Then Jesus answering said unto them, Go your way, and tell John what things ye have seen and heard: how that the blind see, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear; the dead are raised, to the poor the gospel is preached.” Luke 7:19-22
Jesus gave John an answer by telling him what he was doing and saying, for his words and his works testified to the truth. Jesus repeated that message when others questioned His role and His purpose. He told them that His words confirmed His authority. He also said that if they needed more evidence, then consider His miraculous works. Both testified to His authority and His commission from God. John wanted confirmation about this man Jesus. Was He really the Messiah, or should they continue to seek their Savior? Are you the one, or do we look for another?
Our immediate family members, our extended family, and our friends are asking the same question of us. Are you the one who will show me the way to God, or do I look for another? Are you the one who can help me with my problems, or should I look for someone else? What do you answer them? Do you send them to someone else, or are you willing and able to provide them with what they really need? Often those words are not used, but the circumstances speak clearly, “Are you the one or do I look for another?”
Are you the one (who will help feed the poor, visit the sick, rescue children from slavery, help the pregnant woman so her baby lives), or do these persons look for another? Many pro-life, not-for-profit agencies and other Christian organizations are constantly asking Christians that question. Are you the one, or do we look for another?
The very question is haunting. And I wonder how often God asks that question of us and receives only lip service, if any response at all. There are multitudes of lost souls out there voicing the same question, “Are you the one or do I look for another?” Most of the time, it is not a vocalized question, but it rings deep in the hearts and minds of many lost people. Let us all pray that we are the one and that they need not look further. Pray that God will send you to those who are ready to hear the answers to their most profound questions.
The prophet Isaiah saw the Lord, high and lifted up. After an angel purified his tongue, God asked who should be sent, and Isaiah said, “Here I am, send me.” May that be our heart cry to God, as He cleanses us for the work He has for us.
Are you the one, or does God look for another?
