While in prison, John got occasional reports of his cousin Jesus’ activities. The reports did not seem to bring John much joy. Jesus’ actions seemed very tame compared to the fiery actions and imagery John used to prepare people for the arrival of Jesus. We don’t know if John was really questioning if Jesus was the Messiah, or if he was trying to teach his followers something.

We have filled the Christmas story and all the stories of Jesus with huge meaning. Which tends to lead us to thinking that when Jesus was around, everyone must have been aware he was preaching, telling parables, and dropping truth bombs left and right. Surely, Jesus had everyone’s rapted attention. But there was no spotlight shining on Jesus’ every move or paparazzi documenting Jesus’ every word and action. As Jesus spoke and taught, donkeys brayed, vender cart wheels squeaked, and people went about their lives chatting loudly.

God chose a seemingly weak and lowly path to the world’s salvation. John the Baptist noticed this and wondered about it. Maybe we would have too. Perhaps there have been times with the storms of life when we’ve wondered if the promise of peace on earth and goodwill to all is really only a dream.