Friday, April 25 – Matthew 11, Luke 7

1. Why do you think John sent his disciples to ask Jesus if they should expect someone else? (Matthew 11:1–6; Luke 7:18–23)

2. Where can we find rest? (Matthew 11:28)

3. What did Jesus say about the centurion who asked for his servant to be healed? (Luke 7:9)

John the Baptist was in prison. His situation was difficult; he felt alone and didn’t fully understand why he was going through it. This led him to question whether Jesus was truly the Messiah or if they were to expect another. So, he decided to send his disciples to ask Jesus.

Two things impress me about Jesus’ response to the question. First, He did not rebuke John for doubting. From this, I learn that Jesus is aware of what we go through, and He understands our trials and hardships.

Second, His answer was not direct but instead pointed to what was happening, He revealed God in action. I learn that while I am going through trials and difficulties, there is a God who understands and is working for my good.

Matthew 11 also shares the beautiful words of Jesus for those of us who feel exhausted and burdened. He says, “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28)
Jesus is the safe and peaceful refuge when our souls are weary. In His arms, we find rest and renew our strength to keep walking through life.

If you feel like you can’t go on today, remember Jesus’ invitation, He offers rest for your soul. He desires to carry your burdens, in fact, He already carried them to the cross at Calvary. All that remains is for us to place them on Him.

Luke 7 presents two lives filled with sorrow and pain: First, the centurion whose servant was near death, and second, a widow who, with tears in her eyes, was carrying her only son to the grave.

To the centurion, Jesus praised his faith, saying, “I say to you, I have not found such great faith, not even in Israel!” (Luke 7:9)

To the widow, Jesus said, “Do not weep.” He showed that He identifies with our sorrows and tells us, “I am here, and I am the resurrection and the life.”

Never forget, we have a God who acts, in whom we find rest and peace.
Have a beautiful day.