Matthew 17:10-13 NRSVue
10And the disciples asked him, “Why, then, do the scribes say that Elijah must come first?” 11He replied, “Elijah is indeed coming and will restore all things, 12but I tell you that Elijah has already come, and they did not recognize him, but they did to him whatever they pleased. So also the Son of Man is about to suffer at their hands.” 13Then the disciples understood that he was speaking to them about John the Baptist.
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Reflection on Matthew 17:10-13
Inspiration from 2025-12-13 Daily Prayer
In Jewish tradition, it was thought that the Prophet Elijah would come back to earth before the coming of God’s anointed one. His task would be to prepare people for this momentous occasion. The disciples asked Jesus about what was likely to happen, and they did partially pick up that a foreteller in the shape of John the Baptist had been sent, but was given as little respect or credence as Elijah himself.
One who would prepare the way for the Saviour would be sent, and hints of the Lord’s arrival would be given. We find them dotted throughout the Christmas readings and liturgies.
Further reflection
The disciples brought their questions to Jesus, to hear what he might have to say. I bring the things that make me wonder, that raise questions for me and I lay them before Jesus in prayer. I listen carefully for his word.
Neither John the Baptist nor Jesus was always recognised. I pray for the humility I need to act as Jesus did.
God's messengers, whether it was Elijah, John the Baptist or even the Son of Man, tended to be rejected and even eliminated. This is a bitter truth about our human condition in the midst of our Advent journey. Advent still calls us to a fulfilment promised and guaranteed by God. In my prayer can I hold together both the promise and the shadow? It is good to talk to the Lord about these things.
This child soon to come will soon suffer. The eastern icons of Christmas have the manger in the form of a coffin. The crib is at its most realistic when the cross is somewhere in the background. All his life Jesus was aware that he would suffer; and not alone he himself, but John the Baptist and all who would follow him. The following of Jesus will challenge us on all the areas of our life - how we love, how we treat the poor and needy, and how we give some time in our lives to God and the things of God
The disciples brought their questions to Jesus, to hear what he might have to say. I bring the things that make me wonder, that raise questions for me and lay them before Jesus in prayer. I listen carefully for his word.