Jesus - God's sign

Matthew 12: 38 - 42

Teacher, we wish to see a sign from you....

Isn't it expected that the scribes and Pharisees would keep asking for signs from Jesus? Those who do not want to see what is already there, will ask for more signs, more confirmation, perhaps just to delay actually taking a stand. They feared what they had seen. In fact, they had probably seen 'glimpses of truth' in all that had been happening around them. But it was scary and desolating, rather than consoling for them. For the crowds who were seeking, hungry for more than food, the powerful signs, the authoritative teaching brought consolation and comfort. They were heading in the right direction, they were open to new things. But those who had much to lose held back.

This reminds me of the people I have come across in spiritual guidance. Those who are open and seeking are ready for being accompanied. They do not lack faith but they come with real questions (based on their experiences of life, of God) that have no theoretical answers. The answers are found in a genuine, lived faith and discovery of God in the midst of their experiences. Those who have already made up their minds on certain aspects of their faith are really not open enough for God to break through with new 'signs'. Their faith is real enough, but they may miss the invitation to really go deeper into the heart of God.

The scribes and Pharisees were religious people, but missed the wonderful opportunity to join in the new thing that God was doing in their midst. Even those considered pagan, like the Ninevites and the queen of the South were open to God's warning and his wisdom.

In the spiritual life, as we ask God to sanctify our minds, our hearts and our imaginations, we would do well to remain open to the new signs of God's presence in and around us. Christ who is with us and who lives in us by his Spirit is surely sharing many 'signs', seeking our response.