He heals the sick, raises the dead and forgives sins – this is Jesus rescuing and restoring his people. New life is played out for all to see and respond to. People wonder who he is. And it doesn’t matter who you are; a wealthy Gentile soldier, a poor bereaved widow, an uninvited guest – all are welcome and invited to see that in Jesus of Nazareth the one true God, the God of Israel, the Lord of heaven and earth, is personally present and active.
• Who do you think Jesus is?
• Think of a moment in life you dread. Imagine Jesus joining you in the middle of it. In what ways is his presence reassuring?
• How inclusive is your understanding of God’s kingdom?
• How might you respond to Jesus today? With faith like the centurion, questions like John’s disciples (vs.18-20), or with boldness and adoration like the sinful woman?
