Gospel

Matt. 11:2-15 (NRSV)

2When John heard in prison what the Messiah was doing, he sent word by his disciples 3and said to him,
'Are you the one who is to come, or are we to wait for another?' 4Jesus answered them, 'Go and tell John
what you hear and see: 5the blind receive their sight, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the
dead are raised, and the poor have good news brought to them. 6And blessed is anyone who takes no
offense at me.'

7 As they went away, Jesus began to speak to the crowds about John: 'What did you go out into the
wilderness to look at? A reed shaken by the wind? 8What then did you go out to see? Someone dressed in
soft robes? Look, those who wear soft robes are in royal palaces. 9What then did you go out to see? A
prophet? Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet. 10This is the one about whom it is written, "See, I am
sending my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way before you." 11Truly I tell you, among
those born of women no one has arisen greater than John the Baptist; yet the least in the kingdom of heaven
is greater than he. 12From the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven has suffered
violence, and the violent take it by force. 13For all the prophets and the law prophesied until John came;
14and if you are willing to accept it, he is Elijah who is to come. 15Let anyone with ears listen!

The Word of the Lord.

Thanks be to God.