03/12/2022 - JOHN’S DISCIPLES

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Then John’s disciples came and asked him, “How is it that we and the Pharisees fast often, but your disciples do not fast?” Matthew 9.14

That day was a day of teaching, and the Lord’s mission was to remove doubts from each of the people who came to Him. This showed that they wanted to please God, but could not do it on their own. There, in Levi’s house, we saw the hindrances that take over the lives of those who do not know the Truth. Now, the Truth sets free, giving life and joy to those who listen to it (John 8.32). Thus, by keeping the divine commandments, they become God’s beloved ones (John 15.14).

In the hearts of John the Baptist’s followers, there was restlessness. “How to please the One who is the Reason of life?” was the question of those who would not take no as an answer. The proposition was set when they came to the feet of the Master. Hunger ached in those small hearts, for they were disciples of the one who came to open the way, but left prematurely by the king’s command, who was pleased to hear him. What a paradox! Herod loved and respected John, but killed him (Matthew 14.1-11).

Those disciples knew that they had to eat in order to live, but to learn to live they had to fast, giving the body a “halt”. This way, they could put in order the commandment to do good, to love even their enemies, and to give their dear ones the attention that could change their minds and hearts. The worst person is the one who takes care of everyone, but forgets their own (1 Timothy 5.8). John’s followers would sacrifice themselves if necessary, but saw that Jesus’ disciples did little fasting and so they asked why.

It seemed easy, but they had to break through barriers; after all, they were standing before the One who created the Universe and all things in it. This was no ordinary man, but God, who incarnated and came to teach how to win, in order to honor Him and be honored as well. With care and faith, they came to the Savior’s feet and, opening their mouths, asked their questions. Remove your doubts by going straight to God, the Creator and Sustainer of all things. He is pleased to teach those who want to be victorious!

What they learned from John had to be improved, for they were falling behind those taught by the Master. There is a difference between those who study in a university anywhere in the world, even if it’s considered the best, and those who receive guidance from the Lord. He speaks like no one has ever spoken and uses simple words to show the Truth, giving it freely (Matthew 10.8). It is worth drawing near to God, making the effort, and seeking the solution to any problem in prayer and in the study of the Word!

Who doesn’t want to learn from Christ? Yes, there are the proud and the religious, who don’t submit to the Lord and therefore become losers. This hurts the heart of the Son, for He came to lead everyone to the abundant life He provides (John 10.10). You must convert, submit to the King of kings and Lord of lords. Then you will enter through the Door, which is Jesus, and you will know divine love – the love of transformation (John 10.9). Why live in sin if He is wisdom and love?

“Tell us”- was their plea. “Tell us the secret,” they cried with naive sincerity. The answer had been given, but, anxious and worried about so many things, they wanted to win anyway. They had to believe in the Father’s writings. This way, they could live Jesus’s teachings. This is the way out of all failures!

In Christ, with love,

R. R. Soares