The Promise Keeper
Long before Jesus was born, God made a promise through the prophets. He said He would send someone like Elijah to prepare the way for the Lord. That promise puzzled people. Elijah had been taken up into heaven centuries earlier, so many imagined he would return dramatically, just as he left. Instead, God fulfilled His word in an unexpected way. He sent John the Baptist, born through a miraculous birth to elderly parents, living simply, preaching repentance in the wilderness. John was not Elijah reborn, but he came in Elijah’s spirit and purpose. God kept His promise, but not in the way people predicted. From the very beginning, God showed that His plans are trustworthy, even when they surprise us.
Scripture Overview
In Matthew 11, the story turns from celebration to wonder. John, the promised messenger with a miraculous birth, now sits in prison, hearing about Jesus. Like many others, John expected God’s promises to unfold with power and judgment. Instead, Jesus arrived humbly, much as John himself had. Both were sent by God, both came in unexpected ways, and both pointed to something greater than people imagined. When John asks if Jesus is truly the one to come, Jesus answers by pointing to signs of restoration: the blind see, the broken are healed, and good news reaches the poor. This is what God’s promise looks like in the flesh. Christmas reminds us that God often fulfills His promises quietly, faithfully, and in ways that invite trust rather than demand certainty.
Things to Ponder
Why do you think people expected Elijah and the Messiah to come differently than they did?
Have you ever struggled to recognize God at work because it looked different than expected?
What does Jesus say proves who He is, and why do those signs matter?
How does knowing God keeps His promises shape how we trust Him today?
Where might God be working quietly in your life right now?
Application Challenge
This week, practice trusting God as the Promise Keeper, especially in moments that feel unclear or disappointing. What would it look like to pause before reacting and remind yourself that God may be working in ways you do not yet understand? Like John, we often believe God’s promises while still being surprised by how He fulfills them.
Look for one ordinary moment each day to place your trust in God’s faithfulness. It might be choosing patience instead of frustration, hope instead of worry, or prayer instead of control. In these ways we can affirm to ourselves that God keeps his promises.
Prayer Prompt
God, You are the Promise Keeper. Thank You for keeping Your word through John and through Jesus, even when people did not understand Your ways. Help us trust You when Your plans surprise us. Open our eyes to see where You are at work, and give us faith to follow You in everyday moments. In Jesus name, Amen.