Expectations

Everyone walks through life with expectations. That's human and normal. The question, of course, is whether our expectations are correct.

In this episode of The Chosen, the tension between expectation and reality is on display. For example, some disciples expect Jesus to bring salvation through force against Rome. Another disciple wonders when Jesus will heal him. But their expectations don’t quite match Jesus’ plans.

Many believers experience the same thing. Sometimes the things we assume Jesus will fix or change remain unchanged. Instead of solving the problem, He may use it to strengthen our faith or draw us closer to Him.

What are you expecting from Jesus in this season of your life?

Consider the story of Bartimaeus in Mark 10. Bartimaeus is blind, and he spends his days sitting on the street begging for his daily bread. When he encounters Jesus, Jesus asks him, "What do you want Me to do for you?" In other words, what do you expect from Me?

Jesus invites Bartimaeus to be honest and name his expectations. Bartimaeus responds, “Rabbi, I want to see.”

When we bring our desires and hopes to Jesus, we don’t know how He will respond to them. Bartimaeus received his sight back. Many others do not. But in faith we know that whatever Jesus does, He does for our good because He loves us. The more we come to realize that truth, the more we will hold our expectations with open hands.

Jesus responded to Bartimaeus, “Your faith has saved you.” Ask yourself: Are you living by faith or by expectation today?

Reflection Questions

• What are you expecting from Jesus in this season of your life?
• Have you ever been disappointed in God for not meeting your expectations? How do you respond in those moments?
• What expectations do you want to talk to Jesus about today?

Prayer

Lord, I realize I have a lot of expectations. You see what I hope for, what I fear, and what I desire. And, You know what is best for me. Teach me to trust You. Help me bring my requests honestly, while believing You know what is good and right. Strengthen my faith as I follow You. Amen.

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