Day 68 – The Blessedness of the unoffended
Study Luke 7:18-35
“And blessed is he who is not offended because of Me.” Luke 7:23
John the Baptist was a man of towering convictions, a prophetic voice who had gathered his own devoted followers, some of whom, like Andrew, would later follow Jesus. John had boldly declared Jesus to be the Lamb of God, witnessing the Spirit descend upon Him. Yet as time passed and the quiet momentum of Jesus’ ministry began to outpace John’s, a heavy shadow fell across the forerunner’s life. From the cold isolation of Herod’s dungeon, John sent a poignant question through his remaining disciples: “Are You the Coming One, or do we look for another?”
It is a startling query coming from the one who prepared the way for Christ. Perhaps John, languishing in prison, wrestled with misunderstanding. Like many in Israel, he may have anticipated a Messiah who would immediately crush the powers of darkness, execute divine judgment, and bring political liberation. Or at the very least, deliver His faithful forerunner from a tyrant’s cell.
Jesus did not respond to John’s question with a grand theological defence or a promise of immediate political revolt. Instead, in that very hour, He quietly demonstrated the true nature of His kingdom. He healed the sick, cast out afflictions, restored sight to the blind, and brought hope to the broken.
Christ assured John of His identity, not through thunderous political displays, but through merciful acts of personal restoration. As G. Campbell Morgan noted, human impatience often demands spectacular interventions, yet the Lord’s way is so often one of plodding perseverance in seemingly small acts of love.
Jesus concluded His response with a tender yet searching word: “And blessed is he who is not offended because of Me.” The word used here for 𝘰𝘧𝘧𝘦𝘯𝘥𝘦𝘥 refers to the trigger mechanism of a trap, the very thing that causes one to stumble. Jesus knew His humble, non-political ministry ran counter to popular expectations, posing a stumbling block even to a giant of faith like John.
There is a deep, quiet joy reserved for those who choose to trust Him, even when His ways do not align with their own plans or timing.
Pray with me: Lord Jesus, forgive me for the times I try to fit Your kingdom into my own expectations or become discouraged when You do not act as I think You should. Give me eyes to see Your quiet grace at work, and grant me a steadfast heart that refuses to stumble when Your ways are different than my own. Amen. ©
Love, Iriza
