WEDNESDAY 3.8.23: A widow rescued–John the Baptist called to trust
“To lose a child is among the most painful of human experiences . . . [As] the woman Jesus met in Nain . . . walked with her community in sorrow, Jesus had compassion for her.” 1 In prison (Luke 3:19- 20), brave John the Baptist faced doubt. “Jesus’ reported acts (v. 18) were praiseworthy but differed from the expected baptizing in fire (Luke 3:16-17).”2 If Jesus was “the one,” as John had said, when would he deal with evil Herod? John sent the question directly to Jesus.
Reflection
• In Jesus’ day, losing an only son was an utter disaster for a widow. Only through a male relative could she legally own property or funds. Jesus saved the widow, not just from emotional loss, but likely from poverty and marginalization. What has Jesus saved you from? In what ways can trusting his loving power give you strength and comfort for each day?
• John the Baptist wished Jesus would free him from Herod’s prison and wipe out that corrupt line. He saw no signs that Jesus intended such an assault. So, he asked. How does John’s story show you that it’s okay to ask God any questions you have? How did Jesus’ caring answer echo his quote of Isaiah in Luke 4:18-21 to show that he was “the one,” but with God’s timing and means?
Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank you that whether I’m full of thanks like the widow or filled with questions like John, I always find in you the loving person who truly was “the one.” Amen.
1Ginger Gaines-Cirelli, “Portrait” note on “Widow from Nain” in The CEB Women’s Bible. Nashville: Common English Bible, 2016, p. 1300.
2HarperCollins Christian Publishing. NIV, Cultural Backgrounds Study Bible, eBook: Bringing to Life the Ancient World of Scripture (Kindle Locations 232935-232936). Zondervan. Kindle Edition.