Reflection for Easter 4
“Cold, cranky, walking around trying to keep warm. Surrounding by mutterings and questions – always the same one: ‘Tell us, plainly, are you the Messiah?’”
Plainly?!!!
Isn’t that what he has done – what’s plainer than actions? Actions speak louder than words at any time, in any place. People who are ill are healed, people who are hungry are fed, people who are lonely welcomed, people who feel shamed forgiven, people who are reviled, rejected are accepted. The list goes on. In his actions, Jesus has shown clearer than words could ever do that he is indeed the Messiah.
You can ask the same question as many times as you like, says Jesus, but the answer will always be the same. And on that cold winter’s day, with a tinge of frustration, Jesus declares: ‘it doesn’t matter what I say – or do – you will never believe.’ A sad indictment to those people gathered around Jesus of Nazareth on that cold winter’s day – in the temple dedicated to one of the greatest Israelite kings, Solomon. But of course, it could have been that this was not the answer they really wanted!
Maybe their idea or image of the Messiah, the Saviour, was of a figure of great mighty earthly power who would overthrow the oppressor (Rome), restore the fortunes and prestige of those who were oppressed.
And of course, they were out of luck. The Messiah’s power and authority is based on a bottomless well of love, empathy, kindness, justice – all the characteristics that the questioners did not want to hear. And maybe, there’s a sneaking wish for us today that the answer be different.
Because God’s good news in Christ, for those who choose to hear the voice of the risen Christ and respond, means an opening up of our own ears to the same cries of help that Jesus heard.
Of listening and responding. Today, the telling of good news, as always, as it always has been, is founded on actions – helping people find jobs, for a roof over their heard, enough food on the table, joy in friends and family, comfort in sorrow and anger – for everyone to have a home.
Christ’s words are Christ’s actions – we who follow can do no less.
Blessings
Ceri
