Day 57

Leviticus 19:1-20:21; Mark 8:11-38; Psalm 42:1-11; Proverbs 10:17

Sign or No Sign?

In a moment of frustration, Mark tells us that Jesus declared that no sign would be given to “this generation.” Yet, Jesus’ ministry was full of signs, both before and after this statement.

So, what are we to make of His refusal to give a sign to “this generation?” It appears that “this generation” is a pejorative term applying to a certain type of person coming to Jesus. In this case, it is a group of argumentative Pharisees who appear more interested in disproving Jesus than in discerning whether He might be the Messiah. Jesus has already performed many signs, and it seems likely that at least some of their number would have been present at one or more. Certainly, they have had many first hand testimonies.

Jesus knows that the eyes of the skeptic will see what they want to see, and the hardened heart will not be cracked, even by a sign. Indeed, those who demand proof are rarely satisfied even when it is offered. This helps us to see that the purpose of Jesus’ signs is not primarily to convince skeptics, but rather to affirm and strengthen the faith of those open to following Jesus.

All those who seek to share Jesus with others will encounter skeptics – those already determined not to believe. Be not dismayed! Even Jesus encountered such and turned His energies, instead, to those open to believing.

The Rev. Eric Turner