Since our celebration of Christmas, the Gospels show that Jesus has matured. He has reached a point at which he makes a decisive life-change. The Gospel writers tell us of his encounter with John the Baptist and his baptism, followed by a lengthy retreat for prayer and fasting. Then, Jesus emerges from his retreat and after hearing of John’s imprisonment, he invites others to follow him. He makes a significant change to John’s preaching of repentance and calls for repentance BECAUSE the Kingdom of God is near!

Jesus’ public ministry is about three years. In that relatively short time Jesus has a tremendous influence on a great number of people. His power to heal infirmity and relieve people of sin and stress had a great impact on the people.

Sometimes believers become trapped when they see the miracles Jesus performs. They say: “Look what Jesus did! Is this not wonderful?” But, Jesus wanted more than to be admired. He healed the people and preached his message to those who already had faith. He wanted others to recognize God. He wanted others to listen to what he preached and to live it. Jesus was the Godman who was oriented toward life. He wanted us to have life, and have it in fullness!

Also, it is important to see who Jesus healed and to whom he preached his message. Among those he healed were disabled beggars who stayed near busy streets and roads. These beggars were well-known. Many people considered them to be sinners who deserved their disease and pain. Jesus shows everyone that God wants them to have life.

He also healed many others who came to him. These persons included the poor, the outcast, and those who lived with great difficulty in a society that saw their poverty as a curse for their sins. Jesus speaks to them, affirms their dignity, and reminds everyone that he has come into the world for the sick, the sinner, and the poor.

The Kingdom of God is near, and Jesus is the extraordinary king. He does not want title, or status, or honor as a worldly king. He wants all to see that no one is beyond the boundaries of his Kingdom. Forgiveness, mercy, life, and blessedness are found in his Kingdom. Such blessings are not exclusive to the rich, the powerful, the educated, etc.

Everyone, repent! Everyone, enjoy the blessings of God’s kingdom!

Peace, Fr. Andy