Recognizing the Signs - Monday of the 6th Week of Ordinary Time

By Sr Renee Dreiling ~ May 12, 2008

In today’s gospel we get a chance to see the human side of Jesus and perhaps a bit of exasperation and impatience in the words: “He sighed from the depths of his spirit and said, “Why does this generation seek a sign? Amen I say to you , no sign will be given to this generation!”

This response to the Pharisees coming to argue with Jesus and wanting to be given a sign comes right after Jesus had miraculously fed four thousand people with seven loaves and a few fish. These same Pharisees had seen Jesus heal the man with the withered hand in the synagogue not long before.

So why did they argue with Jesus and want more signs to prove who he was?

I look at myself and think about the signs Jesus has worked in my life and yet how I sometimes doubt and feel fear about the future. I wonder too about us as a community with all the signs of God’s presence we’ve been given over the years and yet the fear so many of us have as we move into the Union. Wouldn’t you think by now we’d all personally and communally know deep in our hearts that Jesus is always with us, with wisdom, with courage, with strength as we move through life?

If we falter though James has some clear advice for us in the 1^st reading, “If any of you lacks wisdom, she should ask God who gives to all generously and ungrudgingly, and she will be given it.” Furthermore James says we should ask in faith, not doubting.

Over the years both in my own life and in the lives of the people with whom I work, I find one of the best ways to remember the signs God has given is to list all the things for which to be grateful. Being grateful helps us appreciate what life has given us. Being grateful influences our attitude, it softens our harsh exterior and it takes the threat out of new situations.

As standing puts us in a stance to run or walk; as sitting puts us in a position to visit or to study; as lying down puts us in a position to sleep or to rest; so being grateful puts us in a position to receive.

How can we express our gratitude today? How can we open ourselves to receive and to see the signs God gives?