Jesus always gets upset when the people he encounters ask for a sign! The people who ask here are the people of Israel – who had been waiting for centuries for the coming of the Messiah – for him – to come. Now that he is here – it frustrates him that they do not recognize him. And rightly so!
In the first reading James tells the people that they must expect trials in their lives – because trials are opportunities for faith! Asking God for help and strength in times of trial – and believing that God will hear and answer the prayer is an act of faith. For such people no "sign" is required. Where there is faith – there is no need for a sign – because the faith itself can see what ordinary sight cannot see.
Therefore the poor can see that they are exalted in the sight of God; the rich ought to be able to see that they tread on thin ice – in their self-imposed exaltedness they ought to see that they are like a flower that springs up in the morning but fades away with the heat of the day!
Trials are the true sign that God offers to his faithful people! This is an unexpected perspective and therefore very difficult to comprehend for those lacking in faith.
We, today, can ask for an increase of wisdom and faith – so that we can see things aright – and find our consolation in the fact that God the Father will take care of us – if we trust him completely all of the time – especially when he sends or allows trials in our life. He loves us so – and would not send or allow anything at all that is not absolutely best for us – and for those whom we love!
Be kind to us, Lord, and we shall live in joy!
No comments:
Post a Comment