The more we move into the Advent season, the more our scripture texts bring the Christ-child’s birth closer and closer to us. Yet here in Matthew 11:2-11 we are back to the relationship between Jesus and John the Baptist. Yet even though this is not part of our text for this week, the mere mention of John’s name should remind us of their cousinly kinship, even of an in utero jump for joy that marked their first meeting--making cousin John the first person to celebrate Advent.

As out text opens Jesus has just sent his disciples off on their first unchaperoned mission journey. Chapter 10 records Jesus’ lengthy instructions to his chosen twelve as they go out to heal and teach with Jesus’ authority. The role of master over disciple, Jesus’ ability to instruct and direct, are the focal points…