Signs and symbols

Luke 11: 29 - 32

..now one greater than Jonah is here

This is the season of many signs and symbols. Chinese culture and beliefs incorporate the symbolic in order to find meaning and live life well. And during this festive season, everything plays an important part - from the types of food to be eaten, to the clothes worn and of course zodiac readings. But why do human beings look towards signs and symbols in the first place? There must be a universal longing for something more, something beyond our grasp, that we try to reach out for through signs and symbols. I find the many Chinese cultural symbols, whether food or decorations rather aesthetic. When done in good taste, they are attractive and pleasing, and can certainly add to the festive celebration. But what they actually point to I cannot grasp.

Jesus speaks of himself as a 'sign'. He claims to be greater than the reluctant prophet Jonah. The people who asked for 'miraculous signs' are, according to him, a 'wicked generation'. There is always the human desire to see supernatural works. It is easier to seek that type of 'sign'. However, Jonah was a prophet who brought warning to the people of Nineveh, resulting in their repentance. They recognized the need to obey God and receive his forgiveness. And Jesus too had said, "I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance" (Luke 5: 32). Jonah and Jesus are not about wonder - working signs. The sign that they brought is the sign of repentance. Jesus is certainly greater than Jonah. Not only does he call for repentance but he himself is the sign and means of God's saving grace for all who confess their guilt and return to God.

This may seem a somber note during our festive period. But in reality, it is not. For the only way we can truly be free to live the 'abundant life' is to receive the sign of repentance and rejoice in the loving embrace of our God.