Feb 16 Monday: Mk 8:11-13
In the time of Jesus, many Pharisees held specific expectations about the signs the true Messiah would perform. Tradition had developed long lists of extraordinary wonders that, in their view, would unmistakably prove the identity of the promised Savior and distinguish him from false claimants. In earlier periods, some self-proclaimed messianic figures had boasted that they could divide the waters of the Jordan or cause the massive walls of Jerusalem to collapse by a word. Against this background, the Pharisees approached Jesus and demanded that he produce a sign from heaven that would meet their expectations.
Jesus understood their hearts. He knew that many among them were proud, hardened, and unwilling to accept the signs he had already performed, healings, exorcisms, and acts of mercy that fulfilled the prophecies of Scripture. Others were not seeking truth at all, but simply wanted to witness something spectacular. According to Mark’s Gospel, Jesus firmly refused to grant their demand for another sign. However, in Matthew and Luke, he speaks of one final sign that would be given, the sign of Jonah. Just as Jonah spent three days in the belly of the great fish, so the Son of Man would spend three days in the heart of the earth before rising again. The Resurrection would be the definitive sign of his divine authority. Yet even this greatest of signs would not convince hearts closed by pride and prejudice.
Life message:
It is tragic when people search restlessly for extraordinary wonders while ignoring the daily and living presence of Christ. Even today, some travel great distances to witness alleged supernatural phenomena, yet fail to recognize Jesus where he has truly promised to remain, in Sacred Scripture, in the Holy Eucharist, in the worshipping community, and in the faces of their brothers and sisters. The greatest sign has already been given in the death and Resurrection of Christ. Our task is not to demand new signs, but to open our hearts in faith to the One who is already present among us. God bless you.
